This year, the theme is Fund, Respond, Prevent, Collect.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a time to galvanise action to end violence against women and girls around the world. It begins on November 25th with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and ends on December 10th with Human Rights Day.
A shadow pandemic of violence against women domestic abuse and sexual violence has run alongside the 2020 Covid-19 crisis. Pre Covid- 19, 1 in 3 women experienced violence, abuse or harassment in their lifetime- we know that this will have risen this year. The Covid- 19 restrictions and lockdowns meant many survivors opportunities to access support and safety were limited and we are now aware that during this time there was an escalation of violence and abuse.
In a time that has been so devastating and uncertain, a resolve to build back better is growing and solidifying across Wales and the rest of the world. These two pandemics have starkly highlighted the unavoidable truth- that violence against women and girls is everyone’s business, and sparked an enthusiasm for meaningful collaboration, shared learning and stronger commitments to prevent abuse, protect and support survivors, and sustain the services that support them has grown.
The circumstances of this year mean that the 16 Days of Activism will be different, but there has arguably never been a more important year to get involved.
You can find Welsh Women’s Aid’s 16 Days calendar in English here:
16 Days English
and in Welsh here:
16 Dyddiau Cymraeg
The 25th November is International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. This year, we aren’t able to march in the streets or light our candles from the same match, but the circumstances that stop us from doing so and the violence that has happened alongside them, make marking this day all the more important.
This day is an opportunity for feminists across Wales to hold their own online services and gatherings. This can be a light a candle event, a religious service, a reading, a toast or simply a chance to share your favourite feminists quotes with your friends.
Find some guidance on how to to hold your own online event here:
In English: International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
In Welsh: Diwrnod Rhyngwladool Dileu Trais yn Erbyn Menywod
Check our website and look to our social media (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram) for ways to get involved with the 16 Days of Activism and share feminist content.
If you are planning your own event or doing something creative during the 16 Days of Activism, we would love to hear from you! Send us a message on Twitter or email [email protected]