Jonahsa Foundation Inc. has strongly condemned the alleged sexual harassment and mob violence perpetrated against a young woman at Red Light, describing the incident as a serious violation of human rights and human dignity.
The condemnation follows an incident that occurred on Thursday afternoon in the busy commercial district of Red Light, where a young woman believed to be in her 20s was captured in a widely circulated video being stripped naked and publicly harassed by a crowd. She was allegedly attacked for wearing what some residents described as revealing clothing without underwear.
In a press statement issued Friday, the organization’s Chief Executive Officer, Jonah Barcon, expressed deep frustration and concern over what he described as the “mishandling” and public humiliation of the young woman.
Jonahsa Foundation Inc. is a nonprofit organization catering to more than 500 underprivileged children across Liberia, including over 200 girls. “The assault on her dignity and bodily autonomy simply because of her mode of dressing is unacceptable,” the statement noted.
Mr. Barcon stressed that no woman or girl deserves to be harassed, assaulted, or subjected to violence because of her appearance or clothing choices. He warned that victim-blaming based on dress reinforces harmful gender stereotypes and contributes to the normalization of violence against women and girls in society.
According to the Foundation, the incident highlights the urgent need for increased public awareness and education on gender rights, consent, mutual respect, and non-violence.
The organization also called for greater investment in Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in schools and communities, arguing that such programs can help young people better understand bodily autonomy, gender equality, responsible behavior, and the importance of consent.
Furthermore, the Foundation urged community leaders, parents, schools, religious institutions, youth organizations, and policymakers to collaborate in promoting tolerance, respect, and protection for women and girls. “Violence should never be justified under the guise of morality or culture,” the statement emphasized.
The nonprofit organization additionally called on relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable under the law.
It also urged society to reject mob justice and condemn all forms of sexual harassment and gender-based violence, while advocating for safer environments where women and girls can live free from intimidation, abuse, and public humiliation.
