The government and law enforcement have been called upon to do better to protect victims of domestic and gender-based violence. Photo: Internet Source

(L-R) Talking Points Co-hosts Damion C. Grange, Violet Thomas-Gaul, guest Ms Rhonda R. Victor-Pinnock, and Co-host Elvin G. Grant. Photo: Facebook

Speaking on Talking Points on ZBVI 780 AM on Monday, December 1, 2025, Mrs BVI 2024 and WIN BVI Ambassador Rhonda R. Victor-Pinnock said, as a domestic violence survivor, she wished restraining order laws were enforced. 

“I got a restraining order before we actually ended, and he still was coming to the home, still had access to me. I called and reported it, but he wasn’t placed in jail.”

She said the restraining order legislation needs to be reinforced “so persons can be protected and feel safe”.

Addressing gender-based violence in the VI

Victor-Pinnock also said education is the first step in beginning to eradicate this type of violence from the Virgin Islands. 

“Number one is education, because gender-based violence is not just physical.”

She explained that gender-based violence also includes verbal abuse, emotional abuse and even financial abuse. 

“We’re taking it because we think it’s ok…we think it’s the norm. Again, that comes from cultural norms and what we think about men's and women's roles.”

Victor-Pinnock added that women and men should strive for self-independence.

Educate yourself so you’re not fully dependent on the man or the woman for their funds, get your own bank account, even get an escape plan if you’re in the situation yourself, know how you’re going to get out of it.”

Community involvement is also important, as community members should rally behind victims, Pinnock added. 

“The community needs to support instead of talking about it, demeaning the person and making fun of that person [victim] and being judgmental even.”