gender equality
The fight for gender equality in IndonesiaThe story of the journey of the Independent Network of Volunteers FoundationBy Ilsa NelwanThe Independent Network of Volunteers Foundation or JaRI (Jaringan Relawan Independen) was initially established in 1998 by people with the professions of doctors, psychologists, and other social backgrounds who wanted to help communities and the nation in creating a healthy and peaceful social environment. During the “reformation struggle” of1997-1998 a group of professionals in Bandung supported the university students that were harassed by the military regime. This group organized first aid trainings on campuses, and smuggled out some of the students who needed hospital care. When the reformation took place and the students were safe, this group decided to continue the struggle against violence. JaRI was established in February 1998, and specifically focussed to fight Violence against Women and Children. The first activity was to organize a national seminar on what should be done for rape victims. This was an expression of anger...