Thursdays in Black: The Amokura Family Violence Prevention Strategy

From the NZ Family Violence Clearinghouse:

The Amokura Family Violence Prevention Strategy is an integrated community based initiative to address family violence and promote whanau wellbeing in Taitokerau (Northland). The initiative is led by the Family Violence Prevention Consortium, which is made up of the Chief Executives of seven iwi authorities who have made a long term commitment to preventing whanau violence: Te Aupouri, Te Rarawa, Ngati Kahu, Whaingaroa, Ngapuhi, Ngati Whatua and Ngati Wai.

Amokura provides strategic leadership and co-ordination of violence prevention and early intervention activities across Taitokerau. The Amokura project involves a community awareness campaign - the 'Step Back' campaign – which conveys simple messages and strategies for change, and includes original music performed by young people on local radio and at community concerts, as well as a range of other resources. Also part of the Amokura strategy is a research programme including research on kaumatua insights into Oranga Whanau, a project that explores ‘Mana Tane’, ways that men contribute to the welfare and development of nurturing violence-free families; action research with Whaingaroa rangatahi (youth) on their vision of Oranga Whanau; and a literature review. Other aspects of the Amokura Strategy include support, training and professional development for service providers; and community activities, such as a project to build and use a waka tete (a canoe for women and children, symbolising the divinity of women and promise of safety).

To find out more and/or receive the Amokura newsletter email admin@amokura.net.nz.