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Mayor of Utrecht: “Today, we are showing worldwide that violence against women is intolerable”
Mayor of Utrecht Sharon Dijksma has officially opened the city’s action campaign to end the violence against women and girls. As part of the Orange the World initiative, Utrecht City Hall will be lit in orange every night until December 10th to symbolize the city’s contribution to the elimination of female abuse. Other events will also take part in Utrecht in the upcoming period aiming to raise awareness about this issue.
Mayor Dijksma stated on social media: “Far too many women and girls are victims of violence. Globally, it is about 1 in 3 women. The numbers are rock solid and don’t lie. Today we show worldwide that this violence is intolerable.“
November 25 has been designated by The United Nations General Assembly as International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The campaign is symbolized with the orange color which is viewed as bright and optimistic and therefore shows a future free from violence against women and girls. Every year, many cities around the globe take part in the action by lighting up their most famous landmarks orange.
A new UN Women report revealed that the coronavirus pandemic significantly eroded women’s safety, both at home and in public spaces. The campaign also focuses on the prevention of gender-based violence against women. Different events that will take place in Utrecht will therefore specifically address the issues of domestic violence, street intimidation and violence.
Today, a special walk will be organized through the streets of Utrecht which are known to be unsafe for women. During the event, women will be given a chance to share their stories. A special online event on the prevention of violence against women and girls will also take place on December 9th.
Many other Dutch cities will also take part in the initiative, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Breda, Maastricht, Eindhoven and others.
Photo credit: © Steven Stoffers
