THE theme for 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence (GBV) is, “Let’s End Femicide,” a continuation of last year’s focus.

This is an annual observance started in 1991 that emerged out of the first Women’s Global Leadership Institute held that same year.

According to the Centre for Women’s Global Leadership, more than 6,000 organisations in some 187 countries participated, advancing progress towards the urgent goal of ending gender-based violence.

The Caribbean Voice (TVC) is one of those organisations. This year, TCV is urging everyone to please sign this petition to declare December 6 as the International Day To End Femicide -https://www.change.org/p/united-nations-declare-dec-6-as-international-day-against-femicide – and to help share and promote it.

Also, TCV on December 3, 13:00hrs-15:00hrs, is planning a workshop on youth-relationship violence. The workshop is presented by Proverbial Peace Revived Ministries with lead presenter being Dr Brenetia Adams-Robinson, transformational life strategist and empowerment coach. Participants are invited to register for this workshop by contacting TCV via email: (caribvoice@aol.com) or mobile/what’s app at 646-461-0574.

On December 9, 18:00hrs-20:00hrs, TCV will also hold a panel discussion on safety and resiliency for victims and survivors. Panelists are invited to participate in this discussion. Please contact TCV via email (caribvoice@aol.com) or mobile/what’s app at 646-461-0574 to affirm participation.

Other ways in which “16 Days” could be observed include:

· Focusing on “speak outs” by survivors and loved ones of victims of femicide and gender-based violence. Videos can be shared on social media, letters sent to the print media, interviews done with print media and broadcast media, both traditional and virtual. TCV is willing to help with sharing and promotion if videos, letters/articles and interviews are provided.

· The planting of trees — especially fruit trees — to memorialise victims of femicide and gender-based violence by friends, families, neighbours and former colleagues of victims. Perhaps short programmes can be produced around each tree-planting that may include sharing of memories of victims, music, poetry, skits, releasing of balloons and sharing of snacks and beverages.

· Organising marches, rallies, and candlelight vigils – this can be done by communities, faith-based organisations, and community-based organisations, leaders and influencers. Interfaith events would be fabulous, as will events planned through a collaboration of organisations, with the government – local or central – support.

· Making a donation to an organisation supporting survivors of GBV. If you don’t know of any in your country, TCV can provide some names.

· Educating yourself about GBV – lots of info, podcasts, seminars, workshops and panel discussion are available online. TCV can provide links if needed.

· Reaching out to survivors and giving them a day to remember – gift baskets, consumer supplies, a cookout/games session with them, beauty treatment (nails, hair, full body and whatever else), among other things.

Many do not have the time and oftentimes the wherewithal to become activists and advocates, but many, if not all can find one or more activity from the above list to observe 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence.

It does not matter how small the start is, for once there is a start it will grow. And the above range of activities provide scope for all communities to be involved in activities against gender- based violence.

The Caribbean Voice stands ready to help out where desired. Just reach out to TCV and share your plan.

Yours respectfully,
Annan Boodram