Dear Editor:
Congratulations to those in our community who were instrumental in declaring 16 days of advocacy to eliminate violence against women (News Tribune, Nov. 25, 2016). Gender-based violence is the dirty little secret of our society, and it cuts across all socio-economic groups.
Respect for women begins in the home, as male figures model for small children how females are to be treated. But leaders in churches, schools and politics also bear responsibility by seeking to demonstrate gender equality and women's empowerment. Educating the public about gender-based violence must also include the reminder that violence comes in other forms besides physical abuse. We must also adopt a policy of zero tolerance for verbal abuse and objectifying women sexually.
In this season of Advent, perhaps we can read the Christmas story with fresh eyes. When Joseph discovered Mary was pregnant, he could have easily practiced the customs of the day to publicly shame her or abuse her in other ways. Instead, he showed us how real men deal with life's unexpected complications - they choose love, respect and mutuality, not violence and abuse.