Dear Ecumenical Friends,

Greetings in the spirit of peace, unity, and justice. As we approach the annual 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence, I am reaching out to ask for your support in this critical campaign, which will take place from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day). This global observance provides an essential opportunity for churches and faith communities worldwide to raise awareness, promote healing, and take meaningful action against gender-based violence in all its forms.

The Theme for this year is” Come Together and Act Now“.

Why the Church’s Involvement Matters As leaders of the church, we have a profound responsibility to stand against violence and to promote safety, dignity, and respect for all individuals. Gender-based violence continues to impact millions, leaving scars on families, communities, and individuals who need our compassion, understanding, and commitment to justice. Our voices and actions as faith leaders can play a transformative role in ending these cycles of harm.

Our Call to Action: Observing the 16 Days of Activism  In Past and even this year, we are encouraging churches across all regions to observe these 16 Days of Activism by promoting messages of peace and dignity, offering support for survivors, and engaging our communities in dialogue and action. Here are some recommended ways to observe this time of reflection and commitment:

1. Incorporate the Theme into Services and Sermons
   • Deliver sermons that emphasize God’s love, justice, and the church’s role in protecting the vulnerable. Use scriptural teachings that uphold the dignity of every human being and condemn violence in all its forms.
   • Hold special prayer sessions dedicated to survivors of gender-based violence, asking for healing, strength, and justice.
2. Engage in Community Awareness Campaigns
   • Organize community workshops or informational sessions that highlight the realities of gender-based violence, encourage respectful relationships, and educate congregants on how to recognize and respond to abuse.
   • Utilize church communications (newsletters, bulletins, social media) to share statistics, resources, and messages of support for ending gender-based violence.
3. Partner with Local Organizations
   • Collaborate with local shelters, counselling centers, and support organizations that are dedicated to assisting survivors of gender-based violence. Consider hosting a fundraiser or supply drive to support their efforts.
   • Invite guest speakers from these organizations to share their work and educate our community on ways they can help.
4. Provide Training and Resources for Church Leaders
   • Encourage church leaders and ministry teams to participate in training on trauma-informed care, counselling, and intervention strategies, which will equip them to better support survivors and advocate for safety within our communities.
5. Empower and Engage Men as Allies
   • Host discussions and workshops aimed at men in the congregation, encouraging them to model positive, respectful behavior and become advocates for change in their families and communities.

By observing these 16 Days of Activism, we stand united with churches and communities worldwide to say “no more” to gender-based violence. Together, we can create a world where every person is safe, valued, and respected. Let us use this time to pray, reflect, and take meaningful action that reflects our faith and our commitment to justice and compassion.

Thank you for considering this observance and for your dedication to creating a church community that fosters healing, respect, and peace. May our shared efforts help bring about a world free from violence.

We are attaching the Poster for circulation and also the concept note fro UN  for the same.

In solidarity and faith,

Rev Jyoti S Singh Pillai

Executive Secretary, Commission for Women Concern