Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender Violence: November 25- December 10

FSMH&SA (November 22, 2013): A Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender Violence activity will kick off on November 25^th, which is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The color Orange is used this day to continue to raise awareness of the discrimination and violence that women experience throughout the world. November 29^th is the International Women Human Rights Defenders Day. Women who fight for women’s rights all over the world will be remembered. December 1^st is World AIDS Day, and on this special day, the Red Ribbon is dedicated to raising awareness in consideration for those who are affected by HIV/AIDS. Each State in the FSM will join the world in commemorating this day through various activities. December 3^rd is dedicated to International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The international theme for this day is, “Break Barriers, Open Doors: for an inclusive society for all.” The FSM will join the rest of the world in honoring the purpose of this day, being aware of the need to recognize in concrete terms our friends and families living with disabilities.  December 6^th is White Ribbon Day, and this day is also known as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. The choice of the color white has to do with its traditional association with peace. December 10^th is International Human Rights Day. The day is celebrated internationally as the day when the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, stressing a global vision and acknowledgement of the basic requirements that must be safeguarded for every living person.  

As its basic principle, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence will make more people aware of what is happening to the women, girls, men, boys, people with disabilities, people living with HIV, and the elderly in order to facilitate widespread cooperation in improving life and living conditions for all.  

The Gender Division of the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs is organizing a gathering on Monday, November 25, 2013 at 4:00pm at the Open Building, between the OEEM Office and Public Auditor’s Office to offer a short prayer for all the people affected by discrimination, HIV, violence, and other forms of corruption and kickoff the streak of activities. The activity is open to the public who are invited to show up wearing orange.

For further details, contact Ms. Eleanor S. Mori at 320-2619 or email emori@fsmhealth.fm.