Bring an end to gender-based violence

by Women of the ELCA

Bring an end to gender-based violence

Beginning tomorrow on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (November 25) and concluding on International Human Rights Day (December 10), the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign emphasizes that gender-based violence is a human rights violation.

Two years ago Women of the ELCA joined the International Campaign to Stop Rape & Gender Violence in Conflict, pledging to “call for urgent political leadership and concerted international action to prevent, protect, and prosecute to stop rape in conflict.” Our executive board encouraged all participants in Women of the ELCA to take the pledge as well. The board further encouraged all synodical women’s organizations to advocate for gender justice through and within their companion synod relationships.

This year’s theme for the 16 Days Campaign, “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Let’s Challenge Militarism and End Violence Against Women!” underlines diverse challenges and contributors to gender-based violence and the effects of militarism, economic and social rights violations, sexual orientation and gender identity, disability, health, and political rights on our intersectional identities and experiences.

The 16 Days Campaign continues to be a critical rallying point for women’s and human rights organizations, individuals, the UN, and government entities as a way to call for an end to gender-based violence.

The Center for Global Women’s Leadership is sharing resources, coordinating with global participants on their actions, and hosting a social media mobilization, including blogs and a Twitter “teach-in”. Follow @16DaysCampaign and use the #16Days and #GBVteachin hashtags to join the discussion.