Every October 2nd, we commemorate the International Day of Non-Violence. The reason behind the date is because Mahatma Gandhi, a figure who’s famous for his non-violence philosophy, was born on the same date. Therefore, through the International Day of Non-Violence, people all around the world are reminded to disseminate the message of non-violence. It’s hoped that through this message, we can create a peaceful, understanding, and tolerant society.
Violence is often associated with physical forms of violence, such as abuse, fights, and other physical acts, but the fact is, violence is not only limited to physical actions, but can also be verbal. Verbal violence is often more hidden and occurs in daily communication. Verbal violence can take the form of insulting, demeaning, blaming, or name-calling someone. This type of violence has a significant impact on a person’s mental health and life. Unfortunately, many of us are still unaware of it.
As a step to prevent violence, in Universitas Padjadjaran’s Communication Science Study Programme, there’s a subject that studies violence called Violence Communication. This subject aims to increase student’s awareness, knowledge, and skills in order to create a safe and positive communication environment.
Garda Attila Yanuar Ridwansyah, a class of 2022 Communication Science student, gave his opinion regarding the Violence Communication course. He said that this course increases our sensitivity to any indication of violent behavior. This study is also very relevant to our daily lives considering that cases of violence are still often found around us. He also said that cases of violence are also often found through social media, such as cyberbullying. Therefore, by studying Violence Communication, Garda became wiser in using social media and he always thought of the effects that might occur when conveying a message, either directly or through social media.
Lovie Harleyna Murti, a class of 2022 Communication Science student, also gave her opinion on this course. She said the Violence Communication course gave her the knowledge that there are many factors that can influence a person’s violent tendencies. Through this course, we can see the point of view of someone who commits acts of violence so that we will be more careful and not judge others without reason.
So remember to mind our actions and words to create a non-violent environment as a first step towards positive change in society. Happy International Day of Non-Violence! (Ed)