Thursdays in Black Ambassador Tomi Järvinen: “Churches are a powerhouse globally”
Tomi Järvinen, executive director of Finn Church Aid and a Thursdays in Black ambassador, shares his insights on the influential role of churches in creating a world free from rape and violence. With experience in gender issues and preventing gender-based violence since 1996, Järvinen sees churches as pivotal actors for change.
“Churches are a powerhouse globally and they can use their power in either a progressive or a regressive way,”
“They can influence change for the positive or negative, and I think we need to invest in the positive influence of the churches.”
He emphasizes that supporting the positive role of churches is crucial because this influence remains consistent regardless of political shifts.
“That’s why it’s very important. It’s something that’s sustainable.”
Finn Church Aid has developed a traveling exhibition featuring photos aimed at preventing gender-based violence. This exhibit has been shown in churches throughout Finland and at the general synod.
Järvinen also highlighted the organization’s recent update to its gender policy, which strengthens their focus on addressing gender-based violence.
Engaging young people is a key priority for Thursdays in Black. According to Järvinen, Finn Church Aid plays a major role in education, supporting more than 500,000 students last year alone through various school programs.
Summary
Järvinen underscores the vital, sustainable role of churches in combating gender-based violence and the importance of education in reaching youth through initiatives like Thursdays in Black.