Japanese Moge Community Holds Santa Claus Costume Parade To Fight Violence Against Children

Illustration (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

JAKARTA - The Harley Santa Club community of big bikers (Moge) holds an annual parade dressed as Santa Claus as a form of resistance to child abuse. As is known, the number of violence against children in Japan has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the parade, community members were seen distributing toys to children in the parade Monday, December 21. The club, which was founded in 2008, said that Christmas is the right moment to promote resistance to child abuse.

"Especially because of the corona virus pandemic this year, I think there are many cases of child abuse that are not visible," said Takashi Mine, the event director.

According to Mine, during a pandemic, when many people lose their jobs, it is very possible for many people to take their stress out on their children. "So I think especially during the pandemic we have to do parades," he said.

Hundreds of people usually take part in the parade. However, due to the spread of the virus from Wuhan China, only about 100 people participated.

Even so, the drivers are still enthusiastic in spreading the joy of Christmas to the children who live at home. The plan is for club members to donate toys and candy to around 400 children.

As is known, the number of child abuse cases in Japan rose by 20 percent between January and March. Violence towards children is allegedly because many families spend time at home because of the COVID-19 pandemic.