16DaysofActivism

Raising voices for a safer, sustainable future

Zonta International Leave a comment

The Zonta Club of Dhaka IV, Bangladesh, hosted a public event at Gulshan Ladies Community School Auditorium, addressing the intersection of climate change, gender-based violence and harmful practices like early marriage.

The event featured The Wind of Change, a compelling skit performed by HASHIMUKH School’s children, showcased the impact of climate crises on women and girls, attended by over 50 students and 35 Zonta members. District Governor 25 and community leaders emphasized the need for collective action to combat these interconnected issues, reinforcing Zonta’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment.

Zonta Club of Aparri says NO to violence against women with inspiring seminars

Zonta International Leave a comment

The Zonta Club of Aparri, Philippines, held a lecture-seminar at Lyceum of Aparri, focusing on the pressing issue of violence against women and children (VAWC). Prosecutor and Zontian Benifroi P. Pascual served as the resource speaker, addressing nearly 100 College of Nursing and Senior High School attendees.

The seminar aimed to raise awareness about the causes, consequences and prevention of VAWC. Participants gained valuable knowledge on recognizing signs of abuse and understanding the gravity of the issue. By dispelling myths, promoting empathy, and fostering collective action, the event encouraged a supportive approach to combating gender-based violence.

In another initiative, the club, led by President Liciel Antiporda-Ontiveros, conducted a livelihood seminar on fish processing at Sitio Zimay, Paddaya. Zontian Norma L. Arellano served as the resource speaker, guiding over 100 women attendees on starting low-capital businesses.

The seminar aimed to equip participants with practical skills to support their families and foster economic independence. By encouraging women to pursue their own ventures, the club seeks to empower communities and reduce reliance on partners, promoting socio-economic growth as a vital component of empowerment.

Zonta Clubs of Düsseldorf collaborate for awareness events

Zonta International Leave a comment

The Zonta Clubs of Düsseldorf I and II, Germany, joined forces with Soroptimist clubs and Grupo de Mulheres do Brasil to host impactful events as part of their advocacy efforts.

The centerpiece of their collaboration took place at the central library, featuring the sponsorship of an orange bench as a symbol of the fight against gender-based violence. The event included speeches by local politicians to raise awareness and a reading by a local author, fostering dialogue and community engagement.

Zonta Club of Townsville Metro hosts high tea fundraiser for Zephyr Education

Zonta International Leave a comment

On 23 November, the Zonta Club of Townsville Metro, Australia, launched its 16 Days of Activism campaign with a sold-out high tea fundraiser, attended by 80 guests. The event raised an impressive AU$3,800 to support Zephyr Education, an organization dedicated to helping children affected by domestic violence return to school.

Zephyr Education provides school uniforms and essential supplies to ensure a seamless transition for children starting at new schools. The event highlighted the community’s commitment to empowering young lives through education and advocacy.

Zonta Club of Dhaka III highlights youth leadership and innovation

Zonta International Leave a comment

Zonta Club of Dhaka III, Bangladesh, organized a vibrant daylong program at Insignia Resort, engaging SBK school children, Z club members and youth from various clubs in Dhaka as part of the Zonta Says NO campaign during the 16 Days of Activism.

The event featured dance, debates and skits, emphasizing youth-driven advocacy against violence. Conceptualized by Z and youth members under the guidance of District 25 Chair Ztn. Nasreen Khan, the program was supported by Service Committee Chair Ztn. Seleena Mustafa, Club Creator Chair Ztn. Najma Altaf, PG Ztn. Fahmida Karim and the club’s members.

District 25 Governor Dr. Zareen Delawar delivered a keynote speech, emphasizing that while youth are tomorrow’s leaders, they are the changemakers of today. She inaugurated a free AI learning module, accessible to all, to promote intellectual equality. Prior to the event, Dr. Zareen conducted a Zoom meeting with District 25 club presidents, challenging them to develop unique and innovative themes for the 16 Days of Activism.

📚 Access the free AI learning module here: AI Learning Module

A successful kickoff to Zonta Says NO

Zonta International Leave a comment

The Zonta Club of Frankfurt, USA, hosted its annual Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign kick-off at the historic county building, Old Stoney, marking the start of the 16 Days of Activism.

The event featured powerful presentations by Captain Brady Sorrells of the Frankfort Police Department, Sheriff Rich Kelly and Ericka Lee, Director of the YWCA of Greater Lafayette’s Domestic Violence Prevention and Intervention Program. They shared insights into the local impact of domestic violence, with Sheriff Kelly highlighting ongoing work on a 20-year-old cold case involving a domestic violence victim.

Mayor Judy Sheets issued an official proclamation declaring 25 November to 10 December as Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women and the 16 Days of Activism, reinforcing the city’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence.

The event concluded with a solidarity walk around the building, followed by lunch at a local pizza restaurant, fostering fellowship and strengthening the community’s resolve to end violence against women and girls.

Zonta Club of Isabela hosts events on gender-based violence and cyber crime

Zonta International Leave a comment

The Zonta Club of Isabela, Philippines, partnered with the Municipality of Sto. Tomas, led by Mayor Antonio M. Talaue, to host a symposium focusing on the Laws on Cyber Crime and the Safe Spaces Act, marking their first collaboration.

Braving rainy weather, Zontians and local leaders emphasized the importance of digital safety and anti-harassment laws to combat gender-based violence. Keynote speakers included Hon. Jennifer S. Loveria, Presiding Judge of RTC Branch 22, who opened the event, Atty. Maricion Capili-Guingab of the Public Attorney’s Office, who detailed cybercrime laws and R.A. 9262 (Anti-VAWC), and Atty. Cherie Marie Laddaran, who elaborated on the Safe Spaces Act.

The event encouraged community-driven initiatives to create safer environments and highlighted the vital role of partnerships in addressing pressing social issues.

In a different event, the club partnered with the Municipality of Cabagan, the Regional Trial Court (RTC), the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor, and the Public Attorney’s Office to host a symposium on gender-based violence.

Legal experts and advocates led discussions on critical laws, including the Anti-VAWC Act, fostering education and action against violence. The event emphasized community collaboration and interactive sessions, providing a platform for attendees to share strategies for a violence-free society.

This joint effort aligns with the Zonta Says NO campaign, showcasing the power of collective action to address gender-based violence and promote safety for all.

Zonta Club of Jönköping advocates for change through creative 16 Days of Activism events

Zonta International Leave a comment

The Zonta Club of Jönköping, Sweden, marked the 16 Days of Activism with a series of creative and impactful events aimed at raising awareness about gender-based violence and the Zonta Says NO campaign.

Among the highlights was a partnership with a national gym chain, where a club member and an instructor led three training sessions. Participants were invited to donate any amount, with proceeds supporting Zonta’s mission. Hundreds of gym-goers saw Zonta’s rollups, orange balloons and informational displays, and goodie bags were raffled to enhance engagement.

Inspired by the Convention in Brisbane, the club crafted two orange chairs, symbolizing the fight against violence. The chairs were prominently placed along the shopping street and inside the cultural center, while the cultural center bridge and Town Hall were illuminated in orange. One of the chairs was later auctioned, raising significant funds for Zonta’s advocacy work.

The club also participated in a national hockey game alongside Soroptimists and other supporters, handed out books at the hospital library, and hosted a public outreach day in town. Members offered gingerbread and mulled wine, sold handmade Zonta Says NO bracelets and informed passersby about Zonta’s mission.

Zonta Club of Armidale Inc hosts powerful sessions on domestic violence awareness

Zonta International Leave a comment

As part of this year’s 16 Days of Activism, the Zonta Club of Armidale Inc, Australia, welcomed Michael Jeh, ambassador for the Small Steps 4 Hannah Foundation, for two impactful events focused on raising awareness about domestic violence and coercive control.

A dinner and community workshop spotlighted the tragic story of Hannah Clarke and her children, underscoring the foundation’s mission to educate communities, law enforcement and policymakers on preventing family and domestic violence.

The following morning, Michael led a workshop on recognizing red flags of coercive control and strategies for prevention. The club expressed deep gratitude to the Small Steps 4 Hannah Foundation for its vital work in speaking out and providing practical, lifesaving guidance. These conversations are crucial steps toward creating a safer future.

Learn more about the Foundation’s programs here: Small Steps 4 Hannah

Zonta Club of Tuguegarao launches Zonta Says NO campaign

Zonta International Leave a comment

The Zonta Club of Tuguegarao, Philippines, proudly joined the global Zonta Says NO campaign, part of the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence. The campaign launch focused on advocacy, with the club installing advocacy banners across key community locations in partnership with local government units, schools and agencies like the PNP Regional Office and DepEd.

The club also attended flag rites at Cagayan National High School and Teacher’s Anna the Apple Tree School, amplifying their message through LED displays at high-traffic locations like Mall of Valley. A proclamation by Lal-lo Mayor Florante Pascual designating 25 November as Zonta Says NO Day further highlighted the campaign’s significance.

The club renewed its partnership with Cagayan State University and the Commission on Population Development Regional Office II to enhance education and advocacy efforts. Collaborations with schools, government agencies and community organizations aim to foster action and create safer spaces for women and girls.