violence-against-women

Zonta Club of Madagascar hosts informational meeting and discussion on violence against women

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As part of the 16 Days of Activism, the Zonta Club of Madagascar, Madagascar, engaged women and girls in a meaningful discussion about ending violence against women. The session took place before the club’s monthly training program in Antananarivo.

Participants shared examples of violence, fostering a powerful exchange of experiences and insights. The discussion concluded with a unified message from attendees: “We agree with you, Zonta Club of Madagascar. We too say STOP, NO TO VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN.”

Zonta Club of Parma promotes gender equality through inspiring female athletes

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The Zonta Club of Parma, Italy, hosted an empowering event featuring female athletes from An exciting meeting with the athletes of Parma Calcio 1913, of Zebre Parma rugby and with the very young judoka, winner of the bronze medal at the world championships, Rebecca Valeriani. With journalist Pietro Razzini moderating, the athletes shared stories of determination, resilience and overcoming challenges to achieve excellence in their sports.

Discussions with coaches and technical staff highlighted the importance of respect and sensitivity in fostering a culture of equality in women’s sports. The event emphasized how sports can challenge gender stereotypes, promote equal opportunities and inspire young women to pursue their dreams.

Sponsored by the City of Parma, the event concluded with a show of solidarity as the rugby team invited Zonta members to their match, where a minute of silence was observed to honor victims of violence against women.

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 Dhaka III empowers change and advocates against child marriage and gender-based violence

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On 5 December, the Zonta Club of Dhaka III, Bangladesh, organized an advocacy program at Abinte Kabir Foundation, a school for underprivileged girls, to raise awareness about early child marriage and gender-based violence. The event brought together students, teachers and community leaders, including the Co-Founder of the foundation, Past Governor and Area Director of District 25, Advocacy Chair and club members.

Highlighting education as a key to combating gender-based violence, the program emphasized the critical role of awareness in eliminating early child marriage. As part of the initiative, the club also donated a sanitary napkin dispenser to improve menstrual hygiene access. This practical step aims to reduce school absenteeism, destigmatize menstruation and support girls in pursuing uninterrupted education.

By addressing these pressing issues, the club continues to foster a safer, more equitable community, empowering girls and women to thrive.

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 Dhaka I hosts advocacy session

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As part of the 16 Days of Activism, Zonta Club of Dhaka I, Bangladesh, hosted an advocacy session, “Women in Education,” at Shaj Technical College. Led by Advocacy Chairman Hosneara Idrish and President Helen Akter, the event encouraged female students to share their educational journeys and male students to pledge support for the education of their female family members.

Highlighting education as a tool to combat gender-based violence, the session reinforced Zonta’s mission to foster gender equality. “Education has given me the confidence to dream big,” shared one female student, reflecting the session’s empowering impact.

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 Cebu I promotes safe spaces

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On Day 12 of the campaign, Attorney Noemi Truya Abarientos delivered a compelling talk on the Safe Spaces Act, also known as the Bawal Bastos Law, at One Central Hotel in Cebu City. The event was organized by the Philippine Association for Social Workers Inc. Cebu Chapter in collaboration with the Zonta Club of Cebu I, Philippines, focusing on creating safe and respectful spaces for all.

Attended by social workers and community members, the event sparked meaningful discussions on the law’s implications and its role in combating harassment. By fostering awareness and advocacy, the session highlighted the need for environments where everyone feels safe and respected, reinforcing the commitment to gender equality.

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.