November 25th is the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, data and reports have shown an increase in violence against women and girls, especially domestic violence. Named the “Shadow Pandemic,” this dramatic increase in violence against women occurred during a time when services such as domestic violence shelters, helplines, and healthcare are at capacity. As part of the efforts to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to focus our attention on addressing this violence, raising awareness, and providing supportive programs to help women during this difficult time. The theme of this year’s national holiday is “Orange the World: Fund, Respond, Prevent, Collect!” which is the beginning of 16 days of activism to put an end to gender-based violence and help fund this collective effort. You can join in on the campaign through social media using the following hashtags: #GenerationEquality, #orangetheworld, #16days, and #spreadthe word.
According to the UN, one in three women and girls experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. 71% of human trafficking victims worldwide are women and girls, with 3 out of 4 being sexually exploited. Many women that are married still aren’t free to make their own decisions about sexual relations, contraception, and healthcare. Violence against women and girls is a violation of human rights, including domestic violence, sexual violence and harassment, human trafficking, female genital mutilation, child marriage, and more. This exposure to violence can traumatize women and girls, with long-term effects on their mental and physical health. Especially at a young age, these experiences can stunt development and put girls at an educational disadvantage. To encourage participation in and access to higher education, the labor market, and the arts, we need to put an end to this harmful gender-based violence.
Looking to take action to help end violence against women?
You can make a difference by listening to, believing, and supporting survivors.
Teach the next generation about respect, consent, bodily autonomy, and accountability for our actions, regardless of gender identity.
Call on local governments to continue funding for services to support women and girls who have survived violence.
Learn the signs of abuse, the kinds of abuse, and how you can help by finding someone safety and support.
Start a conversation with friends, family, or the internet to raise awareness about ending violence against women.
Stand against rape culture by holding perpatrators accountable. Join a march for women’s rights.
Donate to women’s organizations that support survivors, amplify their voices, empower women, and promote gender and sexuality acceptance
Educate yourself and others by researching further.
Global Hope 365 celebrates the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women by raising awareness and fighting for legislation to put an end to human trafficking and child marriage. Global Hope 365 is active in the community and dedicated to the advancement of women’s and girl’s rights. We are organizing, fundraising, strategizing, and advocating, and of course learning more every day on how to transform the landscape in California, the U.S., and around the world. Your donation is helpful, but your time is invaluable. You are invited to connect with us and join our efforts.
Visit GlobalHope365.org to learn more about human trafficking and child marriage.
Together we can make a difference! Donate to help our mission: https://globalhope365.networkforgood.com/
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