demonstrations rallies public displays

Glow with Zonta

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On 10 December, the Zonta Club of Lenawee, USA, concluded the 16 Days of Activism with “Glow With Zonta,” an impactful event held on the courthouse lawn. The evening featured heartfelt remarks from a local family navigating a public domestic violence case, “Justice for Dee,” and a moving performance by a local singer.

The event provided an opportunity to educate the community about Zonta’s mission while raising awareness about domestic violence. Zonta Says NO signs were prominently displayed on the courthouse lawn for the 16 days leading up to the event, amplifying the campaign’s visibility.

Attendees participated in a moment of silence, followed by a march around the block with the Zonta Says NO banner, demonstrating solidarity and commitment to ending gender-based violence. Covered by 13 ABC News, the event was a powerful success, with plans to make it an annual tradition.

Zonta Club of Ibadan I and II conclude the 16 Days with resolve

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The Zonta Clubs of Ibadan I and II, Nigeria, concluded their 16 Days of Activism campaign on 10 December at Bodija Market, engaging men and women in discussions about fostering peace in communities and empowering the girl child for a brighter future.

Through collaborative efforts, the clubs emphasized Zonta’s clear and unwavering message: Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women and Girls!

Zonta Club of Kuopio I illuminates awareness

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For the fifth consecutive year, the Zonta Club of Kuopio I, Finland, illuminated public buildings in orange to raise awareness for the Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign. This impactful initiative continues to serve as a vibrant reminder of the club’s dedication to ending gender-based violence and promoting equality.

Zonta of Club of Cheyenne hosts silent witness march and domestic violence discussion

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On 2 December, the Zonta Club of Cheyenne, USA, led a Silent Witness March in downtown Cheyenne to honor local victims of domestic violence. Community members joined the march, carrying silhouettes representing individuals killed by domestic partners or family members. Following the march, participants shared personal stories of loss and survival, creating a powerful space for reflection and awareness.

The silhouettes were later displayed at the community library, where the public could read about the victims throughout the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

As part of the campaign, the club also secured proclamations from the Governor of Wyoming and the Mayor of Cheyenne, recognizing the urgency of ending gender-based violence.

The Silent Witness events garnered local media coverage, amplifying the club’s message and advocacy efforts to promote awareness and action against domestic violence.

Zonta Club of Hualien’s response to the 16 Days of Activism

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The Zonta Club of Hualien, Taiwan, launched the Zonta Says No to Violence Against Women campaign alongside its social service activities. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about Zonta’s commitment to opposing domestic violence and empowering women to break free from abusive situations.

Club president Peng Liping emphasized the importance of helping women understand their rights and encouraging them to stand up to their abusers. By doing so, the initiative seeks to prevent women and their children from enduring the long-term effects of violence and fosters a future free from its shadow.

Zonta Club of Jamestown, ND, empowers women through self-defense class

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During the 16 Days of Activism, the Zonta Club of Jamestown, ND, USA, hosted a self-defense class at the local art center, focusing on situational awareness, active shooter scenarios and responses to unexpected situations.

The event featured a member from Damsel in Defense and a local female police officer, who provided expert guidance and answered questions from attendees. The session, held just after an active shooter incident in the area, underscored the importance of empowering women with safety knowledge and building confidence in handling violent situations.

Zonta Club of Jelgava combines art and recognition to combat violence against women

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As part of the global 16 Days of Activism campaign, the Zonta Club of Jelgava, Latvia, launched two interrelated projects in 2024: a striking environmental art installation and its annual “Heart-to-Heart” recognition event.

Straw Dolls Installation
The club’s unique environmental project, “Straw Cannot Be Hurt, but a Woman? Recognize Violence!”, features 12 large-scale straw dolls displayed in Jelgava’s city center, accompanied by real-life stories of violence. Each poster includes a QR code linking to resources for victims, raising awareness and providing support to the public. The installation, located in one of the busiest pedestrian zones, has drawn widespread attention and engagement, with daily stories shared on the club’s Facebook platform.

Heart-to-Heart Awards
The club’s annual event honored four specialists from law enforcement and public services for their dedication to combating violence against women. Awards highlighted significant achievements, mentorship and social responsibility, drawing attention to the vital work these individuals perform daily.

Impact and Reach
The project exceeded expectations, engaging approximately 16,000 social media visitors, with 900 tuning in for live-streamed events. Coverage from national and regional media further amplified its reach, including features on Latvian national television, news portals, and local press. Public engagement at the installation site, with residents stopping to read, photograph, and use QR codes, underscored the success of the initiative.

The Zonta Club of Jelgava’s efforts not only raised awareness but also fostered public dialogue, recognition and actionable support, contributing to a safer, more informed community.

Zonta Club of Isabela advocates for gender equality through art, tribute and community collaboration

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Day 13: Launching the Zonta Kalayaan Project
On Day 13 of the 16 Days of Activism, the Zonta Club of Isabela, Philippines, proudly launched its latest advocacy initiative, the Zonta Kalayaan Project. The project aims to spread awareness about gender-based violence among high school and senior high school students by creating Freedom Walls—murals designed to depict Zonta’s Zonta Says NO Campaign.

The first Freedom Wall was unveiled at St. Thomas Montessori De San Mariano, Inc. in San Mariano, Isabela. The club hopes to have the Freedom Walls across all high schools in the Isabela province. This initiative provides students a platform for creative and constructive expression, reinforcing Zonta’s mission to educate, inspire and empower young individuals to envision a society free from violence and inequality.

Day 14: A Day of Tribute to Survivors
On Day 14 of the 16 Days of Activism, the club paid tribute to victims and survivors of gender-based violence. With the sentiment “Like a Phoenix, your voice rises from the ashes of pain,” each story is a testament to strength, resilience and rebirth.

Haesseah Chloe Santiago, first runner-up in the club’s 2nd Empowerment Awards, contributed slogans for the event, emphasizing stories of transformation and hope. These tributes are a call to break the silence and inspire a future grounded in dignity and equality.

Orange Your World in Angadanan and Alicia, Isabela
As part of its Zonta Says NO campaign, the club shared and showcased the different municipalities of Angadanan and Alicia that have stood with and advocated with the club. Together, they raised banners and promoted pledges against violence. The three cities stood together, committing to:

  • Saying NO to violence against women and girls.
  • Saying NO to violence in all forms—physical, psychological and online.

Zonta Club of Karlskrona-Ronneby marks Zonta Says NO with community engagement

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On 25 November, the Zonta Club of Karlskrona-Ronneby, Sweden, gathered at the city’s largest shopping mall to raise awareness about the significance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Members distributed informational materials and engaged shoppers in meaningful conversations about the day’s importance.

The club also collected donations in the form of items purchased by supermarket customers, which will be distributed to women with protected identities facing economic difficulties. A lottery was held to raise funds for the club’s ongoing projects, further supporting their mission to empower women and combat violence.

The evening was marked by a strong sense of community and purpose, leaving participants encouraged and inspired to continue advocating for change.

Zonta Club of Kungälv lights up the town orange

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In collaboration with the local municipality, the Zonta Club of Kungälv, Sweden, spearheaded initiatives for the 16 Days of Activism, turning the town orange to raise awareness about gender-based violence. Shopping malls and shops featured orange displays, while the town hall was illuminated in orange, symbolizing solidarity with the Zonta Says NO campaign.