Creating Awareness about Sexual Harassment in Rainbow Home

On 12th July 2018, Naina Jha conducted an awareness workshop on sexual harassment and safety measures for 40 girls of Rainbow Home, Patna.

The workshop began with a simple example of a touch that went on to explain different types of touches, safe and unsafe touch, asking children to trust their instinct, and always speak up if they every felt unsafe or uncomfortable. Naina explained that an unsafe touch could come from strangers as well as a family member or someone we trust. She brought to their notice warning signs and symptoms like feeling guilty, irritated or ashamed and not wanting to to talk to anyone. She explained to them the difference between harassment and sexual harassment with the help of examples of harassment faced on roads and public spaces. She explained that behaviour like commenting, groping, stalking, being elbowed in rickshaws, being winked at, having their dupattas pulled was not okay. Naina explained the different types of harassment and got them to remember the Child Helpline Number in case of emergencies.

She concluded the workshop with the PANTS rule:-

P for Private is private;

A for Always know that your body is personal and only you have the right;

N stars for No means No;

T for Talk about secrets that upset you and

S stands for Speak up because someone can help.