Code of silence is brokenATTITUDES have changed dramatically in the past 20 years, in secular and religious communities of all denominations. While it is true that there was a code of silence surrounding such matters, it is also true that this attitude is changing. For 15 years, the Jewish Taskforce Against Family Violence has been at the forefront of education and awareness. Yeshiva College was one of the first schools to welcome sessions on family violence and preventing child sexual assault. Yeshiva College, as well as other Jewish schools, now has programs to prevent child sexual abuse and victims are encouraged to come forward. There may be many reasons why victims are reluctant to speak out, but the Rabbinical Council of Victoria has actively worked with the JTAFV and encourages victims to seek appropriate support. It is also worth noting that Yeshiva College is co-operating fully with the police in its current investigations. Deborah Wiener, chair, Jewish Taskforce Against Family Violence, Melbourne |