A plaque recognizing efforts to end domestic violence by the Women and Children Crisis Centre (WCCC) in Tonga was presented to staff on behalf of the United States Pacific Command and the Nevada National Guard on Thursday, March 16.

Presented by the U.S Ambassador Judith Cefkin said this NGO works independently outside of the government to advocate for the human rights of women and children, gender equality and to end all violence against women and children, while offering free counseling and legal services.

"We know that domestic violence is a problem around the world and also in the Pacific," she said.

"Women are vulnerable to domestic violence and victims need assistance of thie type that the WCCC is offering. Raising awareness is the first step to stop the cycle of violence and to raise the stature of women in communities. I want to commend the centre on its excellent support for women and children in Tonga."

The centre represented by Lesila To'ia, Staff Team Leader expresed their gratitude to the Ambassador, delegates and team from the United States Pacific Command and the Nevada National Guards for recognizing the work of WCCC to end domestic violence not only in Tonga, but in the region and internationally.