OPM, Albizu University join forces to debunk gender violence myths
- The San Juan Daily Star
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
By THE STAR STAFF
The Office of the Women’s Advocate (OPM by its initials in Spanish), in a strategic collaboration with the Psychological Counseling Program at Albizu University, has launched a new initiative as part of the international 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence campaign, which seeks to prevent and eradicate violence against women through awareness-raising activities, guidance, and services available to the community.
The alliance announced Monday promotes education, prevention, and community action to eradicate all forms of violence against women and girls. During this period, the OPM is sharing the educational initiative “Myths About Gender Violence,” which aims to debunk misconceptions and promote a culture of respect and equality. The short videos, directed by Dr. Esther Figueroa, an OPM psychologist, aim to deepen public understanding of the issue.
“We seek a comprehensive and collective approach, ensuring that victims receive dignified and safe care, and that law enforcement agencies are provided with the necessary protocols for effective intervention,” Women’s Advocate Astrid Piñeiro Vázquez said, calling for deep reflection on the problem. “Gender-based violence thrives on ignorance and social prejudices. That is why, during these 16 Days, we reaffirm our commitment to equality, justice, and the safety of all women, inviting citizens to reflect on those beliefs and attitudes that, often without us realizing it, normalize or justify violence.”
Referring directly to the educational initiative, Piñeiro Vázquez added: “It is imperative to understand that violence is not just physical blows. The idea that if there are no blows, it’s not violence is the most dangerous myth.”
“The reality is that violence includes many forms -- psychological, emotional, economic, cybernetic -- that leave deep and lasting scars, and we must name and combat them all,” she said.
Regarding social responsibility, the women’s advocate emphasized that “[w]e must dismantle the idea that the victim must resolve this alone, that it is a private matter.”
“Domestic violence is a social and public health problem that requires the attention of the community, institutions, and, above all, the state,” she said. “Indifference also perpetuates violence.”
Piñeiro Vázquez focused on the complexity of leaving an abusive relationship and the importance of institutional support.
“Victims don’t return because they don’t want help, but because leaving an abusive relationship is a complex process that requires constant psychological, social, and legal support,” she said. “Our work, in collaboration with institutions such as Albizu University, is to offer this safe and professional support network, especially because the most dangerous stage can happen after a separation, and support is vital.”
Myths debunked: Education for equity
The collaboration with the Psychological Counseling Program at Albizu University allowed for the detailing and debunking of common myths, such as:
Myth: “If there are no blows, it’s not violence.”
Reality: Violence includes non-physical forms such as psychological, emotional, sexual, economic, cyber and verbal abuse.
Myth: “The victim should resolve it alone; it’s a private matter.”
Reality: Domestic violence is a social and public health problem that requires the attention of the community and the state.
Myth: “Domestic violence only occurs in poor or poorly educated families.”
Reality: It occurs at all socioeconomic, educational and cultural levels.
Myth: “If there is love, the abuser can be changed.”
Reality: Violence requires professional intervention and accountability from the abuser; it cannot be corrected with love.
Myth: “Victims always return because they don’t want help.”
Reality: Leaving is a complex process that requires psychological, social, and legal support; it is not a lack of will.