The Zonta Club of Alessandria, Italy, has partnered with the Penal Institution of Alessandria for the Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign since 2012.

On 25 November, the institution male inmates honored a moment of silence to remember female victims of violence. Every 10 December, the inmates attend a meeting with Zontians about human rights.

This year on Human Rights Day, more than 70 participated in a reading directed by Past International Director Nadia Biancato entitled, “Respect Is Needed.”

Two prisoners, four Zontians and three members of the City of Alessandria Equal Gender Commission read texts about human rights, against all kinds of violence and discrimination. Songs such as “Only Women Bleed” by Etta James and “Endangered Species” by Dianne Reeves were also played.

The local television station covered the event.

The club is one of Alessandria’s most prominent organizations, recognized for its values by all associations and public authorities.