New Initiatives for Year-Round Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Sexual and Reproductive Justice Hub (SRJ Hub) at the City University of New York (CUNY) has launched a campaign that extends the globally recognized 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence into a continuous effort. Traditionally occurring from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, through December 10, Human Rights Day, this new approach changes the landscape of activism, aiming to promote gender justice not just during the designated days, but throughout the entire year.

For over three decades, feminist movements worldwide have leveraged these 16 days to raise awareness and advocate for the elimination of gender-based violence. However, the SRJ Hub acknowledges the need for sustained action beyond this timeframe, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals in their fight for rights and equity.

The 2024 campaign introduces the theme of bodily autonomy, highlighting the interconnectedness of various forms of gender-based violence and social injustices. By shifting away from a one-size-fits-all approach, the campaign empowers local activists to tailor their messages and resources to their specific contexts, ensuring authenticity and safety in their outreach efforts.

Terry McGovern, the Senior Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs at CUNY SPH, stated, "Women's and feminist gender justice organizations have always spearheaded efforts towards bodily autonomy. Supporting grassroots organizers who understand their communities is essential now more than ever." The newly introduced campaign materials provide organizers with the flexibility to mix and match designs and messages, adapting them as needed.

The call for resources goes further, urging funders to provide multi-year, trust-based core funding to support grassroots organizers. This funding is crucial for promoting bodily autonomy and combating gender-based violence, particularly as local events and strategic resources are necessary for activists operating in challenging environments.

Addressing Global Trends Impacting Gender Equality

Currently, a confluence of global issues threatens the hard-earned rights and protections for women and gender-diverse individuals. These troubling trends include increasing femicides, restrictive abortion laws, and growing gender disparities exacerbated by economic crises. Marginalization of LGBTQI+ communities and the impacts of climate change add additional layers to the crisis, further jeopardizing the rights of many.

In this context, the campaign underscores the principle of bodily autonomy as a fundamental human right. This core message not only champions individual freedom and self-expression through one's body but also cultivates a broader understanding of how various movements can unite to confront these pressing challenges.

Oriana López Uribe, a consultant for the SRJ Hub, elaborated, "We aim to shift the narrative away from victimization. Instead, we encourage people to envision a world where every individual has the power to make choices regarding their own bodies, fostering empathy and solidarity among those who are striving for similar freedoms."

Innovative Campaign Strategies and Community Engagement

The campaign is distinctly participatory, with grassroots organizers involved in the development and review of the messaging. Feedback from these participants has been overwhelmingly positive, praising the campaign's nuanced approach and the emotional resonance of its visuals and messages. Many have noted that this strategy marks a refreshing departure from conventional NGO communications.

The campaign will be active on major social media platforms including Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok under the handle @365toEndGBV. Individuals and organizations interested in utilizing campaign materials can access a range of templates, illustrations, and messages available in multiple languages, including Arabic, English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Russian. These materials are designed to allow flexibility and creativity in local activism, with further updates planned throughout the year based on user feedback.

Conclusion

The transformation of the Global 16 Days of Activism into a year-round campaign signifies a pivotal moment in the fight against gender-based violence. By centering the theme of bodily autonomy and prioritizing grassroots needs, the SRJ Hub is redefining activism and influencing positive change on a global scale. As the campaign unfolds, the focus remains on creating collaborative networks that uplift marginalized voices and empower them to reclaim their rights, ensuring that the fight for equality continues every day of the year.