March 8, 2017
Written by Angela Mancuso, Executive Director of The Women’s Center
International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women around the globe. It’s also an important reminder of the work still to be done to achieve gender equality and ensure futures without violence for women and girls. One of the surest ways to do just that is to acknowledge, address, and eliminate any and all forms of violence. Together, we can affect the change needed to achieve this goal.
At The Women’s Center, we are inspired every day by our clients, who have taken the bold step of reaching out for safety, shelter, or support to move beyond the sexual or domestic violence they’ve endured. It is incumbent upon us as advocates to match their courage and to take action in support of all who are suffering at the hands of an abuser.
Let’s resolve to #BeBoldForChange. Here are five ways we can advocate.
- Start by believing. If someone discloses to you that they’ve been a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, abuse, or trafficking, believe them, and ask how you can support them. This alone begins to help shed the complex layers of shame and secrecy that are often the result of abuse.
- Speak out. When you hear comments or jokes that are sexist, racist, homophobic, or otherwise hurtful, let the speaker know that their words are inappropriate (if it is safe for you to do so). Our complacency means the demise of social change. By refusing to condone hateful language, we can change the tone of a conversation and make a space for new messages to be heard.
- Shape the future. Empower the next generation of women to achieve their potential by breaking down barriers to equality. Be aware of the stereotypes your children are taking in, and talk with them about the damaging or confusing messages they hear. Pave the way for girls to grow up knowing that they are strong, important, and capable.
- Share your story. If you’ve experienced discrimination, harassment, or violence because of your gender, consider sharing your story with others (again, if it is safe for you to do so). Your message may help other survivors feel less alone.
- Say it. One in four women experience domestic violence and one in six women experience sexual assault. Everyone knows someone who has been victimized. Abuse thrives in silence; by calling it out and talking about it publicly, we diminish an abuser’s power.
We simply cannot tolerate violence in any form. The safety and well-being of women and girls depends on the social justice actions taken by an entire community. As Gloria Steinem reminds us, “The future depends entirely on what each of us does every day; a movement is only people moving.”
Be loud, be strong, and #BeBoldForChange.
Know an incredible woman making change in our community? Nominate her for a P5 award.
Looking to give back and unite with other philanthropic women in our region? Learn more about Women United.