For most people White Ribbon Day is the name of a song released in 1997 by a rock band called Delirious. For others, White Ribbon Day is a symbol of hope for the elimination of violence against women.
On 17 December 1999, the United Nations designated 25th November as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. A day set aside for communities to carry out activities to raise awareness of violence against women and to campaign for its elimination. On this day men and women are called upon to wear a white ribbon or a white wristband as a visual symbol of their commitment to prevent violence against women. Men and boys are encouraged to take an oath swearing never to commit, make an excuse or remain silent about violence against women. This is an important first step because after all, we women are their mothers, wives, girlfriends, daughters, colleagues and friends.
On 17 December 1999, the United Nations designated 25th November as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. A day set aside for communities to carry out activities to raise awareness of violence against women and to campaign for its elimination. On this day men and women are called upon to wear a white ribbon or a white wristband as a visual symbol of their commitment to prevent violence against women. Men and boys are encouraged to take an oath swearing never to commit, make an excuse or remain silent about violence against women. This is an important first step because after all, we women are their mothers, wives, girlfriends, daughters, colleagues and friends.
So in support of White Ribbon Day and the elimination of violence against women, wear your white ribbons faithfully and commit to treat all women with respect, dignity and consideration.
I wore my white ribbon proudly and so did my son!
ReplyDeleteI am still wearing my white ribbon as part of the 16 day campaign to stop violence against women. The 16 days start on 25 November, the International Day for the elimination of violence against women and ends on 10 December, International human rights day. Hope you are still wearing yours too.
ReplyDeleteFiyola, I love your blog and hope you take it to the Times someday.
ReplyDelete