The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is an annual international campaign which launches on 25th November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10th December, Human Rights Day.
The campaign is to raise awareness of GBV, including domestic violence and abuse, sexual assault, harassment, and discrimination, which disproportionately impacts women and girls (of course, we do recognise that GBV can affect all genders and sexual identities).
How can I get involved?
Join the movement to foster a culture of respect, challenge harmful norms, and promote gender equality within our University community.
Keep an eye out for events, discussions, and initiatives across UoG during these 16 days to empower students to contribute to a safer and more equitable campus environment.
16 stories for 16 days
Developed by domestic abuse charity, IDAS, the Report + Support team will be sharing 16 stories on our website, one for each day of activism, of the different ways women and girls experience violence and abuse, as well as support that is available. These will be available from 25th November via the link 16 Stories for 16 Days.
25th November 2024: Orange the World Day
Join the global “Orange the World” initiative to support a future free from violence against women and girls. As a bright and optimistic colour, orange represents a violence-free future for all. Wear an orange item of clothing or an accessory (even socks!) to show your support and help to contribute to a safe, inclusive community.
25th November 2024: 12:00pm – 3:00pm
Charity bake sale – Dreadnought Building
The Report + Support team will be working with the GSU to host a charity bake sale. All money raised will be donated to domestic violence charity, Refuge, and LGBTQ+ anti-abuse charity, Galop.
Payment can be made in cash or a JustGiving contribution.
26th November 2024: 4:00pm
Greenwich night safety walk – Outside Queen Mary café
Join the annual campus walk to promote safety in our University surroundings and to assess where improvements can be made.
Enough Campaign
For more information, check out the Enough Campaign where you can access information on the various forms of abuse, how to stop it, report it and get support.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any harmful behaviour or you would like to talk to someone, please complete a named disclosure via the Report + Support website.
Why does the University of Greenwich want to participate in the 16 Days of Activism?
In essence, the campaign serves as a collective call to action, urging individuals, communities, and institutions to address and eradicate GBV in all its forms. UoG is committed to providing a safe space to learn, work, and socialise free of GBV.
This campaign and events will aim to provide:
1. Raise Awareness: Many people may not fully comprehend the prevalence and severity of GBV. The 16 Days of Activism serves to educate and inform our community about the extent of the issue.
2. Cultural and Social Change: To challenge cultural norms and social structures that perpetuate violence against women. By engaging in conversations and activities during these 16 days, there is a push for cultural and societal shifts towards greater gender equality.
3. Empowerment: The campaign encourages survivors to speak out, seek support, and empowers communities to take action against violence. By fostering an environment where survivors are supported rather than stigmatised, the campaign contributes to breaking the cycle of silence.
4. Policy Advocacy: The 16 Days of Activism often involves advocacy for policy changes and legal reforms that can better protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
5. Community Engagement: University students, as part of a larger community, play a crucial role in driving change. The campaign encourages active participation and engagement among students to create safer and more inclusive environments on and off campus.