November 25th marks the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against women. According to research from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2.2 million Australians have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from a partner, whilst 3.6 million have experienced emotional abuse from a partner.
But, efforts to prevent and end violence against women at the global, regional and national levels show that there is widespread impunity on sexual violence and rape. Starting on this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and for the next two years, the UN Secretary-General’s UNiTE to End Violence against Women campaign, a multi-year effort aimed at preventing and eliminating violence against women and girls, will focus on the issue of rape as a specific form of harm committed against women and girls in times of peace or war.
The 2019 theme for this year is ‘Orange the World: Generation Equality Stands Against Rape’. Like in previous years, this year’s International Day will mark the launch of 16 days of activism that will conclude on 10 December 2019, which is International Human Rights Day.
As part of the day, some Australian brands are calling light to the statistics surrounding violence against women – and using their voices for good.
Biologi will be donating 100% of online profits from all sales made Monday to Rize Up Australia to fund the Education and Awareness of Domestic Violence Against Women in Australia, as well as opening up a channel for donations of all amounts through the Biologi website. The brand also released a moving video as part of its campaign.
Australian not for profit Hope + Heal, which provides weekend residential retreats in NSW for women survivors of domestic violence, will be holding a vigil at Sydney’s Martin Place Square to commemorate the day. The charity is aiming to raise awareness for the issue and encourage those impacted to seek support. Roses will be laid to pay tribute to the 45 women who have been murdered as a result of domestic violence this year.
Show your support with the hashtag, #orangetheworld.
If you need help contact the Australian Helpline 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
