Orange the world
Zonta Club of Halle-Pajottenland, Belgium, launched a striking visual campaign by adorning about twenty statues across the region with orange scarves, each handmade by members and supporters. Attached to every scarf was a flyer urging an end to violence against women, along with contact details for helpline 1712, a confidential and free service providing information and support for those affected by violence, abuse or child maltreatment.

Empowering women through self-defense
The club also hosted a free self-defense workshop for twenty women in the region, equipping participants with practical techniques to protect themselves in situations of physical violence. Instructors from the Black Eagle Halle Kung Fu club guided attendees through hands-on training, empowering them to act confidently and effectively in threatening situations.

These initiatives underscore Zonta Halle-Pajottenland’s commitment to raising awareness and fostering resilience in the fight against violence.

Dr. Sunjutha Witchawut and the Zonta Club of Bangkok IX, Thailand, hosted a special event at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, Bangkok’s new main train station, to promote the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

The event featured support from the Area Director, her team, and sister Zontians from various clubs. Attendees participated in engaging activities alongside Z Club students in the terminal’s main hall.

As part of the campaign, the club visited Lady Bogies to directly raise awareness among women and children on board. Additionally, signboards promoting the 16 Days of Activism were placed at the train station, schools, colleges and company premises to extend the message further.

During the campaign, the club’s president and members actively supported events organized by sister Zonta clubs across Bangkok and nearby cities, reinforcing their collective commitment to ending gender-based violence.

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.

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!

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.

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.