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Monrovia – December 10

The Faith and Justice Network (FJN), in collaboration with the Ecumenical Women of the Liberia Council of Churches (LCC), today commemorated International Human Rights Day, marking the official end of the 16 Days of Activism campaign.
The gathering brought together Women Faith Leaders from the Ecumenical Women Organization, key stakeholders from the Liberia National Police (Women and Children Section), the John F. Kennedy Memorial One-Stop Center, the Bible Society of Liberia, the Liberia Council of Churches, and other dignitaries.
The event was held under the theme: “Addressing the Rape Law and FGM: What Can Women of Faith Do: Justice, Emotional, and Spiritual Healing.”
Key Presentations
Speaking on the topic “The Church, Rape and FGM,” Rev. Dr. Christopher Wleh Toe reminded the audience that the church, as a body carrying the Holy Spirit of God, has a responsibility to speak out and stand against all forms of societal ills.
He emphasized that while Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is harmful, issues such as sodomy and LGBTQ+ activities are also concerning, and churches should not remain silent in the face of evil happenings in society.
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Madam Susie Telleh Bility, presented on the 2005 Rape Law, urging participants to follow the correct legal pathways when seeking justice and healing.
Madam Jeanetta OluKing, Administrator of the One-Stop Center at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital, presented the realities of the effects of rape and FGM on a woman’s body. These effects range from difficulty in childbearing, a high risk of infection, and the loss of self-esteem, among other things. She warned that FGM has no proven health benefits and should be avoided to the maximum extent.
A Call to Action
Madam Frances R. Greaves stirred the hearts of the participants, calling for unity and collective action. She drew a powerful parallel, reminding the audience that when Liberia suffered its brutal civil war, the women of Liberia stood up, prayed, and collectively declared, “enough is enough,” bringing the war to an end. She stated that the same collective action can be taken today to address the rising numbers of rape cases.
Madam Greaves concluded the event with a bold prayer for strength, clarity, and passion upon the women of faith in the room and across Liberia, urging them to rise and reclaim the dignity and sanity of the Liberian state. Her prayer officially brought the 16 Days of Activism Campaign to a close.