Today starts the annual 16 days of activism focussing on actions that contribute to ending violence against women. Day 16 is 10 December which is human rights day.
In 1991, I attended something loftily and over-the-toply named the Women’s Global Leadership Institute at Rutgers University. Then I was working at CAFRA, amidst women of passion for the Caribbean, for feminism and for social justice. And although on the eve of departure, I had broken an innocuous and tiny bone in my foot whch caused me to be in a hugely disproportionately-sized cast from knee to toe, I felt I could not, just not go. Peggy had recommended me, Rawwida encouraged me.. and what to do.
So with baby Safiya at home only 6 months and Aschille barely 2, I set off leaving Douglas behind with the lovelies. At Rutgers I met the most amazing group of women from all over the world and I shared a room with Siriporn from Thailand. She did and still does great work with a women’s shelter.
By the end of the institute, these women came up with this idea of focussing the world’s attention annually on ending violence against women for 16 days. It was at this institute that the slogan “Women’s Rights are Human Rights” was coined and the 16 days ends on human rights day.
See where and how the initiative has grown!!! All over the world actions and events are being held by women’s organisations, by parliaments, by human rights organisations.
The power of thought and solidarity.
Gr8 when our passions are manifested into action, and not just talk.
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Hi Roberta, I am really enjoying your blog! Love, Aziza
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And for as long as it takes, however long it takes we have to keep it going. It must continue until there is real and significant change. We must encourage our sons and daughters and nieces and nephews and brothers and sisters, to support every action that promotes the elimination of violence. We must share how important it is that we respect each others’ humanity.
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Thank you for reminding that there are really rewards for the work.
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