Valentine’s Day is a time when the world celebrates love—an emotion so powerful that it can transform lives, build communities, and create a world filled with kindness and compassion. Yet, for many, love remains a source of pain rather than joy due to the pervasive reality of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). This Valentine’s Day, the Orthodox Christian Youth Association of Kenya (OCYAK) renews its unwavering commitment to building a world free from rape, defilement, and all other forms of violence.

As we reflect on the true essence of love, we recognize that genuine love does not harm, oppress, or instill fear. Love, as taught by Christ, is a force of justice, dignity, and respect for all people. It is in this spirit that we reaffirm our dedication to shunning all forms of GBV and call upon young people everywhere to embrace each other in respect and solidarity.

A Commitment to Ending Gender-Based Violence
Gender-Based Violence remains one of the most pressing social issues in Kenya and across the world. Women and girls, in particular, continue to face domestic violence, sexual exploitation, early and forced marriages, and other violations of their dignity and human rights. However, men and boys are not immune to GBV, and many suffer in silence due to societal stigmas.

At OCYAK, we believe that every individual has the right to live free from violence, fear, and oppression. We envision a world where all people—regardless of gender—are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. This vision aligns with our Christian values and the teachings of Christ, who emphasized love, compassion, and justice.

On this day of love, we urge young people across Kenya and beyond to take a stand against GBV. Love should never be a weapon of control or harm. Instead, love should empower, uplift, and create safe spaces for all.

Collaborating for a Future Free of Violence
Addressing GBV requires collective action, and we are proud to collaborate with like-minded organizations that share our commitment to justice and equality. Our partners include:

All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC) – an ecumenical body championing justice, peace, and dignity across Africa. Through AACC’s advocacy, faith communities are actively engaged in tackling social injustices, including GBV.
AACC-CETA Youth – a youth-led initiative under AACC that seeks to amplify the voices of young people in advocating for human rights and the elimination of GBV.
Together, we are working to raise awareness, provide support to survivors, advocate for policy reforms, and foster behavioral change within communities. As youth, we have a vital role to play in shaping a future where violence is not tolerated and respect is upheld in all relationships.

Taking Action: Love is Respect
Love is more than a feeling; it is an action—a daily commitment to kindness, empathy, and justice. To end GBV, each of us must play our part. We invite all young people to:

✅ Educate Themselves and Others: Learn about the different forms of GBV and their impact on individuals and society. Share knowledge with peers and communities to create awareness.

✅ Speak Up Against Injustice: When you witness harassment, abuse, or discrimination, do not remain silent. Challenge harmful norms and stand in solidarity with victims.

✅ Support Survivors: Survivors of GBV need care, protection, and a safe space to heal. Offer support by listening, believing their experiences, and directing them to organizations that provide assistance.

✅ Promote Respect and Healthy Relationships: Ensure that your relationships—romantic, familial, or social—are based on mutual respect, equality, and consent. Love should be safe and nurturing, not manipulative or violent.

Let Love Lead: A Call to Action
This Valentine’s Day, let us redefine love—not as mere sentiment but as a moral responsibility to protect and uplift one another. We call upon young people everywhere to embrace a culture of respect, reject GBV, and champion a world where love is free from harm.

💙 #EndGBV
💙 #EndGBVNow
💙 #LetLoveLead

At OCYAK, we remain steadfast in our mission to empower Orthodox Christian youth in Kenya and beyond, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to become leaders of justice, advocates for human dignity, and change-makers in their communities.

For more information on how to get involved in our initiatives, contact us here.

Together, let us stand against GBV and let love lead the way!