Empowering Women

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, also known as “Ending Violence against Women’s Day,” is a global event observed annually on November 25. It acts as a catalyst for change and empowers individuals and communities to stand against all forms of violence, including:

· Domestic violence

· Sexual assault

· Trafficking

· Other practices that are harmful to women

Every year, 25 November and the ensuing 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence which follow (ending on 10 December, Human Rights Day) are commemorated around the world, providing individuals and groups a chance to mobilize and call attention to the urgent need to end violence against women and girls.

Honoring this special day, our center hosted a female session raising awareness against female violence. Participants were teenagers, single women, and women with children.

The basic key was spreading the clear message of zero tolerance of all forms of violence against women and girls, informing them about their rights and support resources that they can reach.

Following some experiential exercises, we had the chance in understanding what are our physical boundaries, how we can respect them and make them clear to the others.

The feedback that we took was that saying loudly and actively NO and STOP was very relieving for the women. Lastly, that they need more resources to mental health counseling support.

ABEBA WOLDAYES FROM ERITREA