In commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, I’m using this opportunity to once again speak out against this depressing scourge. According to data from the World Health Organization, 1 in 3 women (around 736 million) are subjected to physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner or sexual violence from a non-partner.
If you look at three random young girls, there is a possibility that one of them might have experienced some form of sexual violence or will do before her mid-twenties. It is a heart-breaking thought but one that must be considered as violence against women has become a major public health crisis.
To lend our voice to this campaign, please check out our Extended Hands Foundation Instagram page for updates and resources in addressing sexual and gender-based violence.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day. It was started by activists at the inaugural Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991 and continues to be coordinated each year by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership. It is used as an organizing strategy by individuals and organizations around the world to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.
And while we’re still on this topic, let’s recap the “Hey Woman” monologue which creatively addresses the various distressing thoughts that cripple a woman’s mind in the face of abuse and oppression. It is an anthem of encouragement and unity among women and men.