As we move into the new year it is imperative we reflect on where our culture is on the topic of violence against women.
Globally, 1 in 3 women will be beaten or raped in their lifetimes. That is 1 billion women and girls. This violence has always existed, yet today at an unprecedented rate, people are beginning to speak out against it across the globe.
The White Ribbon Campaign (an international campaign that involves men speaking out against men’s violence against women) is harnessing the enthusiasm of men from all walks of life who feel it is their duty to speak out and help end abuse.
Changing the culture around violence against women is everyone’s responsibility. In the past, women have largely led the charge in trying to end abuse. Times are changing and men are now beginning to speak out.
One may never see a rape or witness a man hitting his wife, but we all hear and see behaviors that degrade women and encourage abuse. Whether you are a business executive, coach, policymaker, or a ski instructor; reflect on your influence and find the strength to speak out against this type of violence.
When laws are proposed that limit women’s rights, let politicians know that you won’t support them. There are many other ways to speak out. Volunteer for or get on the board of a local domestic violence shelter or sexual assault agency. Speak out in the face of “locker room talk”, as being silent only perpetuates the violence.
Men have the resources, the influence, and the power to end abuse. Show your strength. Please join us for V-Day February 14th for our 1 Billion Rising Event in Buckley Park in Durango. Alternative Horizons will have a volunteer training March 22nd and 23rd. Please contact info@alternativehorizons.org for more information.
If you or someone you know has experienced abuse please call the local 24 hour hotlines: Sexual Assault Services Organization at 247-5400, Alternative Horizons Domestic Violence at 247-9619, and Volunteers of America Southwest Safehouse at 259-5443.
Misty D. Fowlds
Cortez
