Presented by Jan Mancinelli, Women’s Resource Center and Sharon Mortensen, Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (Shelterhouse) Violence Against Women

Recognition of the Problem  Globally, gender-based violence is the most pervasive and least recognized human rights violation. It affects every race, class, culture, ethnicity, age and country. Women are potential victims of violence at every stage of their lives.

Prevalence of Violence Against Women  For women and girls 16–44 years old, violence is a major cause of death and disability. A World Bank study on ten selected risk factors facing girls and women in this age group, found rape and domestic violence more dangerous than cancer, motor vehicle accidents, war and malaria.  In no country in the world are women safe from domestic and intimate violence. Half of the women who die from homicides are killed by their current or former husbands or partners.  More than 2 million girls between the ages of 5 and 15 are trafficked, sold or coerced into prostitution each year.

Prevalence of Violence Against Women  “Our goal is clear: an end to these inexcusable crimes - whether it is the use of rape as a weapon of war, domestic violence, sex trafficking, so-called “honour” crimes or female genital mutilation/cutting. We must address the roots of this violence by eradicating discrimination and changing the mindsets that perpetuate it.” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon Message for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 25 November 2009

Zonta’s Position on Violence Against Women  The human rights of women and girls are an inalienable, integral and indivisible part of universal human rights. Zonta's efforts to prevent violence against women worldwide focus on: raising awareness of, and improving education about, violence against women and children; implementing, promoting and enforcing local laws and policies that protect women and victims of violence; and providing medical, legal, rehabilitation and reintegration services for survivors of violence. In cooperation with the United Nations, its agencies and other NGOs, Zonta International has assisted victims and potential victims of violence and human trafficking around the globe.

What About Closer to Home?  One out of five Michigan women reports some type of violence in a relationship – yet it is estimated that 73% of domestic violence incidents go unreported.  Dating violence is prevalent. 40% of year olds reported knowing someone their age who has been hit or beaten by a dating partner.  1 in 4 American women will be raped or physically assaulted in their lifetime

Violence Against Women: It’s Time …. To Get Involved! Every two minutes someone in the United States is sexually assaulted. 1 in 6 women in America will be a victim of sexual assault -1 in 33 men will be a victim of sexual assault An incident of domestic violence takes place every 13 seconds in the United States Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women in the United States

Why Violence Against Women?  Imbedded in culture – oppression of women  Media portrayal of women

What Can You Do To Help?  Offer support and assistance to survivors  Don’t stand by – speak up when you see something that causes you concern  Model respect in your behavior with others  Report any emergency

What Can Zonta Club Do To Help?  Ideas from agencies serving those impacted by domestic and sexual violence included: Helping with web design/social media Doing yard work, office work, etc. Offering skilled services Making meals for residents Adopting and redesigning shelter rooms Funding for client transportation (gas cards or bus vouchers)

What Can Zonta Club Do To Help?  More ideas: Offering scholarships for local women Organizing food and paper product drives Donating gift cards for local stores Gardening Serving on local task forces (such as human trafficking, domestic violence, sexual assault) Assisting with awareness month activities Providing funding and support for billboard campaigns

What Can Zonta Club Do To Help?  More ideas: Helping to plan and staff a Christmas/holiday party Conducting fundraising activities such as hosting an awareness party (inviting a speaker on this topic and receiving a collection at the end) Serving as a court watch volunteer or SANE advocate Serving on a board of directors

Violence Against Women  Questions?