SATURDAY SURVIVOR CHRONICLES: Global Heroine Creates DV Help Initiative - The DV Walking Wounded:
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, a remarkable initiative emerged from Poland, where a teenager’s ingenuity provided a lifeline to domestic abuse survivors. Krystyna Paszko, at just 17 years old, created a covert support system disguised as a cosmetics shop, offering a discreet avenue for victims to seek help.
The Genesis of “Camomiles and Pansies”
Inspired by a French initiative where victims could signal abuse by requesting a “mask 19” at pharmacies, Krystyna recognized the need for a similar discreet mechanism in Poland. In April 2020, she launched a Facebook page titled “Rumianki i Bratki” (Chamomiles and Pansies), presenting it as a natural cosmetics store. This facade allowed individuals trapped with their abusers to seek assistance under the guise of shopping for beauty products.
When someone messaged the page inquiring about a product, trained psychologists, posing as sales representatives, would engage in coded conversations. For instance, questions about “skin problems” or reactions to “alcohol” served as metaphors to assess the individual’s situation. If a person placed an “order” and provided an address, it signaled a request for immediate intervention, prompting the team to alert authorities.
Collaboration and Impact
Initially expecting to assist a few individuals, Krystyna’s initiative quickly gained traction. Recognizing the growing demand, she partnered with the Women’s Rights Centre (Centrum Praw Kobiet), a Polish NGO, which provided professional psychologists and legal experts to support the operation.
Since its inception, the platform has aided over 500 individuals, predominantly women under the age of 40, but also including men and teenagers. The majority of interactions occur via Facebook chat, a medium that offers a level of discretion not possible with phone calls, especially in households under constant surveillance. In approximately 10–20% of cases, the situation necessitated police intervention.
Recognition and Awards
Krystyna’s innovative approach to addressing domestic violence did not go unnoticed. In recognition of her efforts, she was awarded the European Union’s Civil Solidarity Prize, which included a €10,000 reward. This accolade honors initiatives that demonstrate exceptional solidarity and contribute to addressing the challenges posed by the pandemic. Additionally, she was named one of The Pixel Project’s 16 Female Role Models of 2021, highlighting her as an inspiration in the fight against gender-based violence.
Continuing the Mission
Krystyna’s commitment to human rights and social activism extends beyond this project. Her involvement in scouting and leading a Warsaw scout group has instilled in her the importance of community service and advocacy. The “Camomiles and Pansies” initiative remains active, continuing to provide crucial support to those in need.
For more information or to seek assistance, visit the Rumianki i Bratki Facebook page.9lib.org
Krystyna Paszko’s story exemplifies how empathy, creativity, and determination can converge to create impactful solutions in times of crisis. Her work serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives in driving social change.
