“For a long time, I lived in fear and silence. After what I went through, I believed no one could help me, especially not the police. People around me often said that going to the police station would only make things worse, that no one would listen or that I would be judged. But through the activities of the PLURIELLES project in my community, I began hearing a different message. During an outreach awareness session held in my village, health workers, social workers and even police officers came to speak with us. They explained our rights, the services available and, above all, reassured us about the support we could receive. One day, I found the courage to go to a support centre. There, I was treated with dignity and respect. I was referred to the services I needed, including the police. I was still afraid, but a social worker accompanied me. To my great surprise, I was welcomed with kindness at the police station. I was listened to without judgment, my testimony was taken seriously and the process was clearly explained to me. Today, I feel stronger. I know I am not alone and that services exist to protect and support us. Thanks to the PLURIELLES project, I have learned that the police can be an ally in the pursuit of justice. I now encourage other women and girls to break the silence and seek the support services available.”
