Tagata Pasifika

The Pacific voice on
New Zealand television
since 1987

Tagata Pasifika

The Pacific voice on
New Zealand television
since 1987

BREAKING SILENCE

This powerful series, “Breaking Silence”, brings together many voices to share one crucial truth: abuse thrives in secrecy. The only way to stop domestic violence is to spread awareness and find the courage to speak out. Often hidden in plain sight, domestic violence requires a collective effort to reveal and address it, offering real help to those affected and inspiring change in society. 

The stories in “Breaking Silence” highlight the strength of those who have faced and valiantly overcome domestic violence. By sharing these personal stories, the series challenges the beliefs that allow abuse to continue and encourages the community to call out abuse when they see signs of it. It stresses the importance of awareness and the need to actively intervene, showing that breaking the cycle of abuse requires both the bravery of survivors and the involvement of everyone around them. 

Breaking Silence Season 3 Episode 8: Simonne Butler Part Two

Breaking SilenceNov 13, 2023
In this continuation of her story, Simonne Butler nearly lost her life in a vicious attack by an ex-partner, she shares her incredible journey of recovery and resilience.

Breaking Silence Season 3 Episode 7: Paralympian Fiona Southorn

Breaking SilenceNov 6, 2023
Paralympic medalist Fiona Southorn shares her powerful story, an inspiration for young ones living with physical challenges and for all individuals living with violence and abuse.

Breaking Silence Season 3 Episode 6: Detective Jaimie-Leigh

Breaking SilenceOct 30, 2023
NZ Police Detective Jaimie-Leigh shares her story of trauma to inspire that one’s past need not define their future, and dreams can come true.

Breaking Silence Season 3 Episode 5: Simonne Butler Part One

Breaking SilenceOct 24, 2023
Simonne Butler shares critical insights into the relationship that changed her life forever. A relationship that converged on one fateful night where she nearly lost her life at the hands of another.

Breaking Silence Season 3 Episode 4: The Hague Convention

Breaking SilenceOct 18, 2023
The Hague Convention can fail women and their children in the context of violence. We share the stories of Sammie and Lydia and their forming of the New Zealand Hague Collective to help women navigate this terrifying international law.

FAQ's

Raising awareness is crucial because domestic violence often remains hidden in plain sight. By spreading awareness, we can help reveal and address the issue, offering real help to those affected and inspiring societal change.

Sharing personal stories helps by bringing the hidden struggles of survivors into the open, raising awareness, challenging societal norms, and encouraging others to speak out and seek help.

The series hopes to inspire change in society by bringing the realities of domestic violence into the open, challenging harmful beliefs, and fostering a supportive environment where survivors can find a path to healing and empowerment.

Signs of domestic violence can include physical injuries, fear of a partner, controlling behaviour, isolation from friends and family, verbal threats, and emotional manipulation.

Offer support without judgment, listen to them, encourage them to seek professional help, and provide information about available resources. Do not confront the abuser directly.

Resources include Women’s Refuge, Shine, the National Network of Stopping Violence, and government services like the Ministry of Social Development. These organisations provide hotlines, shelters, counselling, and legal assistance.

To report domestic violence, call the New Zealand Police on 111 in emergencies. For non-emergencies, you can contact the local police station or reach out to support services like Women’s Refuge or Shine for guidance.

Victims can apply for Protection Orders and Police Safety Orders, which provide legal protection from the abuser. These orders can restrict the abuser’s actions and contact with the victim.

If you are in immediate danger, call 111. Seek support from trusted friends or family, and contact organisations like Women’s Refuge or Shine for assistance with safety planning, counselling, and legal advice.

Yes, services like Child, Youth and Family (CYF) and various non-profit organizations offer support specifically for children affected by domestic violence, including counselling and safe accommodation.

We welcome all input from our readers! Please visit our “Contact Us” page for more information on how to submit a tip or idea.

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