IF YOU see ‘orange ladies’ around town, during November and December, it is a visual symbol of a united front against gender-based violence.
Orange Ladies appear all over the world, during the United Nation’s annual 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence, from November 25 to December 10.
Locally, the campaign is spearheaded by The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays, who will be placing their orange ladies throughout the community, as a symbol of ‘Zonta says No to Domestic Violence’.
The bright Orange Lady is the global symbol for Zonta’s anti gender-based violence message and represents the hope of a future free from violence against women and girls.
Orange is a bright and optimistic colour and the use of the Orange Lady is to provoke comment and incite conversation about domestic violence in the local community.
The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays is part of Zonta International, an organisation dedicated to empowering women through service and advocacy.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Domestic Violence is one of the club’s significant initiatives, each year.
The campaign is a powerful call to action and runs from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day).
“The 16 Days of Activism Against Domestic Violence is more than just a campaign,” Zonta Club of the Whitsundays president Marlene Reiffel said.
“It is a movement that calls for sustained and collective action to create a world free from violence, where all women and girls can live their lives free from fear and harm.
“Advocating for changes in policies and practices that perpetuate violence is a key aspect of the club’s efforts.
“This includes campaigning for stronger legal frameworks, better enforcement of existing laws, and increased funding for support services.
“The club also works to challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours that condone or normalise violence.
“Through educational programs and community activities, the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays aims to promote a culture of respect and equality.”
The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays will be holding a stall at the Airlie markets, on Saturday, November 30, to continue to raise awareness about preventing domestic violence.
“The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays remains committed to being a driving force in this movement,” Ms Reiffel said.
“Our dedication to advocacy, support, and education is vital in the fight against domestic violence.
“By continuously engaging with the community, and advocating for change, we partner with local organisations to provide necessary support services, including counselling and legal assistance.
“We will be partnering with DV Safe Phone, an Australian-wide charity that gifts refurbished mobile phone kits to victims of DV, through registered agencies (www.dvasafephone.org).
“We also have the sign on the Airlie Hill displayed for the period of activism, to remind everyone who goes past that violence is not acceptable in any form.”
For more information email zontaclub7@hotmail.com.
