A Call to Speak Out against Gender Based Violence
Rape, domestic violence and other forms of sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) are a quiet curse in our homes, schools and communities. Even churches and faith communities are filled with survivors, perpetrators and the scars of suffering.
Rape, domestic violence and other forms of sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) are a quiet curse in our homes, schools and communities. Even churches and faith communities are filled with survivors, perpetrators and the scars of suffering.
According to the CDC, one in three women in the US has experienced sexual or gender based violence in her lifetime; and though male survivors are fewer in number, men are not immune. Yet rape remains one of the most under-reported crimes in our nation, as shame and fear cover this epidemic with silence.
We cannot continue to give silent consent to the prevalence of SGBV both in our own communities as well as around the world.
If the Church will not speak out, who will?
WeWillSpeakOut.US is a faith-based coalition led by IMA World Health to raise awareness about sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) and mobilize the faith community to take action. Through our work to support rape survivors and prevent SGBV in violent Eastern Congo, IMA’s passion for putting an end to SGBV around the world grew deeper and led to this new calling to rally a response.
WeWillSpeakOut.US envisions churches, synagogues and mosques joining together to take a stand, teaching their congregations how to love, supporting community resources and getting survivors the help and support they need for healing. There is strength in numbers, and together we can raise awareness and take action to change the culture of violence that causes so much physical, emotional and spiritual suffering.
Take Action NOW: “Speak Out Sunday” is coming on November 25!
The United Nations has designated Sunday, November 25 as the “International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.” All around the world, people will be taking action to raise awareness about the global epidemic of violence that affects all of us.
What better day to engage your house of worship to SPEAK OUT against rape and gender based violence in all its forms?
WeWillSpeakOut.US is calling all congregations across the world, across faiths and denominations, to dedicate Sunday, November 25, 2012, as SPEAK OUT SUNDAY to dialogue, teach and pray about sexual and gender based violence locally and around the world. This will be an annual event to keep the dialogue going.
Note: This important day also coincides with the UN’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence, observed from November 25 through December 11. If you do not worship on Sundays, please feel free to host a “SPEAK OUT SABBATH” or “SPEAK OUT SERVICE” on a nearby date during the 16 Days!
Ways you can support WeWillSpeakOut.US today:
- Ask your pastor to preach a special message.
WWSO.US members have joined forces to write a set of thoughtful, Scripture-based sermons to help pastors and other faith leaders engage their congregations about this delicate but critical issue. A guide for Christian congregations is available online.
- Post “Speak Out Sunday” flyers around your church.
Entrances, bathroom stalls and water foundations are a great place to get attention! Post the message about Speak Out Sunday around your church to help raise awareness and sensitivity. [Download it here]
- Start or support a counseling program or support group.
Many churches have qualified counselors available for those who need a caring, listening ear. If your church has counseling services, promote them in your bulletin and explore ways to take away the stigma of counseling. If counseling is not currently available, talk to your church leadership about this need and link up with local community support groups and counseling centers to get hurting people this critical support.
- Engage your Youth.
This is not too mature a topic for teens and ‘tweens—many have lived through abuse or date rape, or know others who have. And learning how to respect and treat one another (and oneself) must start early. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has said, “Violence against women and girls takes many forms and is widespread throughout the globe. […] On this International Day, I urge governments and partners around the world to harness the energy, ideas and leadership of young people to help us to end this pandemic of violence. Only then will we have a more just, peaceful and equitable world.”
- Visit the UN’s 16 Days of Activism website for more great ideas and to join the effort.
This is a global effort. Join in!
Follow WeWillSpeakOut.US. As this new movement gains momentum, our website will keep you updated on more opportunities to get involved and tools you can use to make a difference in your community and the world. Visit www.wewillspeakout.us, and follow us on Twitter (username wewillspeakoutUS) and Facebook (username wewillspeakoutUS).