Thursday, November 27, 2014 - Residents of the Virgin Islands are being urged to take a stand against violence and participate in activities in observance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Violence.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Violence started on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on November 25 under the theme, ‘From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World’.
Gender Affairs Coordinator Ms. Lorolie Connor mentioned that the theme has been a revolving one used internationally because it is recognised that violence in the home spills into the communities and the eventually the world. Ms Connor said that the Office of Gender Affairs, in collaboration the Social Development Department, community partners and service organisations will continue to strengthen its work in the fight to end violence against women, establishing a clear link between local and international work to end violence against gender and providing a forum in which organisers can develop and share new effective strategies.
Ms. Connor added that the Office of Gender Affairs is committed to raising awareness on gender-based violence as a human rights issue and this will be highlighted on International Human Rights Day December 10 with a March Against Violence and Celebration of Life Concert. The March will begin at 4:00 p.m. in the parking lot next to the Governor’s Office, to the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park. Thereafter, a balloon release will take place in remembrance of persons who lost their lives due to violence. The Celebration of Life Concert will conclude the evening’s activities. The public is invited to take part as various organisations will sing, dance, and perform skits in celebration of persons who survived acts of violence.
For more information on participating in the March Against Violence and Celebration of Life Concert, interested persons are asked to contact the Office of Gender Affairs at 468-3701, extension 2236 or 2234.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development provides leadership that promotes health, social wellbeing, and a safe environment as positive resources for sustainable human development.
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British Virgin Islands News