Campaign for Children Reaches 20 million People

The Marist Center for the Defense of Children (Brazil Centro-Sur) reported the release of the eleventh video of the “Defend Yourself”, Campaign promoting children’s self-defense against sexual violence. It demonstrates things children can do openly, and also others that nobody need notice. The new video, “Defend Yourself”, using easy to understand language, explains the concepts of privacy and personal space, fundamentals of self-defense. The video was launched on May 18, in Brazil the National Day Against the Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Minors.

The 11 videos of the award-winning campaign have already reached at least 20 million people through social media and are viewed in every country where Marists of Champagnat are present.

"When they are well-instructed, children have a better chance of avoiding abuse, counting always on the support of trusted adults," explained Vinícius Gallon, a co-author and coordinator of the campaign, on speaking about the campaign begun in 2014.

The campaign has garnered various awards and was certified an excellent resource by the Organization of American States.

About the Marist Center for the Defense of Children

Created in 2010, The Marist Center for the Defense of Children, linked to the Marist Network of Solidarity, defends the rights of children, adolescents and young people, via the strengthening of the System of the Guarantee of Rights. The body also analyzes public budgets and promotes political actions in coordination with government, networks, forums, commissions and councils of the Rights.