November 25th marks International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and begins a global call to action: 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence. This year’s theme is –From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World – – focuses on 16 Days Activism Campaign brings together communities from around the world to organize against gender-based violence.
With one in three women around the world experiencing physical or sexual violence, it is time to add your voice to the millions of advocates worldwide speaking out against gender-based violence over the 16 days by joining our #BreakBarriers Twitter chat next Thursday, December 5 at 11 AM (EST).
The social work profession has taken a leadership role in addressing women’s and girls’ health and mental health needs and strengths. Central to these successful efforts is the National Association of Social Workers’ (NASW) commitment to gender equity. For example, the Association has been, and continues to be, involved in work to address violence against women and girls, promote access to reproductive health services, supporting action by finally passing the International Violence Against Women Act (IVAWA), and resolve health and mental health disparities through policy and legislative action
Resources:
U.S. Department of State – Safe from the Start Initiative (September 2013)
Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) General recommendation No. 30 on women in conflict prevention, conflict and post-conflict situations (October 2013)
