IN observance of the 16 days of activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security will roll out a series of events beginning on Friday, November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and will run until December 10, International Human Rights Day.

According to a press release from the ministry, the series of activities held under the theme, “UNiTE! Activism to end violence against women and girls,” will get underway with a grand launch at Camp and Lamaha Streets from 16:00hrs on Friday.

Dubbed “Orange Avenue,” the launch will see subject Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud, members of Cabinet and international representatives taking part in a tree-wrapping exercise, paint for purpose and a mini exhibition. Persons are encouraged to wear something orange-coloured.

The following day, the public will assemble at Camp and Lamaha Streets to begin a march over to the National Park, where there will be a grand rally, featuring performances from Vanita Willie, Omiaha Hall and Signature Productions coupled with a pop-up market by women.

Immediately after, a family picnic is expected to be done in the National Park, demonstrating a loving and nurturing exercise in which families can participate to build stronger bonds.

One of the premier events, “DefendHer,” will take place on December 4 at the Police Officers’ Mess, Eve Leary, where the ministry will collaborate with MAXIDO adult self-defence training to provide a free and open seminar to women 16 years and older to learn several techniques to defend themselves.

Another key feature is the invincible games, which feature a host of sports for persons with disabilities on December 3 and We Lift, lifting women out of domestic violence on December 9 in Linden.

Among the other initiatives planned are the engagements on Guyana’s Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) Report, a nationwide consultation on the new Family Violence Act, campaigns to raise awareness against sexual violence, bullying, body shaming, cyber abuse, elderly abuse and domestic violence and men.