16 Days of Activism: How You Can Make a Difference

16 Days of Activism: How You Can Make a Difference

Every year, from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day), the world comes together for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. It’s a time to raise awareness, spark conversations, and take action to stop violence.

But for many, gender-based violence isn’t just a campaign topic—it’s an everyday reality. Let’s dive into what this campaign is about and explore ways we can all make a difference.

Understanding Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence isn’t just physical. It comes in many forms, each leaving deep scars. Some of the most common types include:

• Physical violence: Hitting, strangling, or using physical force to harm someone.

• Emotional abuse: Insults, threats, manipulation, or behaviours that erode self-worth.

• Financial abuse: Controlling money, withholding access to finances, or sabotaging someone’s ability to work.

• Sexual abuse: Any unwanted sexual activity, from harassment to assault.

• Coercive control: A pattern of behaviour used to dominate and control a partner’s life.

Coercive control is particularly insidious because it often goes unnoticed by others. It’s not just about yelling or obvious physical harm—it’s about subtle, persistent behaviours designed to isolate, intimidate, and trap someone in the relationship. This might look like monitoring their phone, cutting them off from friends and family, or making them feel like they’re always walking on eggshells.

Why Strangulation is a Red Flag

One of the most dangerous forms of physical violence is strangulation or having hands placed around the neck. While it might not leave visible marks, it’s a chilling sign of escalating violence.

Strangulation isn’t just a physical act; it’s a psychological weapon. Survivors often describe feeling powerless, like their life is slipping away. What many don’t realise is that even if someone survives strangulation, the damage to their body can be severe and long-lasting, including brain injuries or lasting trauma.

It’s also a warning sign of potential homicide. Research shows that survivors who have been strangled are seven times more likely to be killed by their partner.

What Can You Do?

Talking about these issues is hard, but silence only lets them grow. Change starts with awareness and action, and there are steps we can all take:

1. Learn and Share Education is a powerful tool. The more you understand about gender-based violence, the better equipped you’ll be to have conversations that matter. Share what you learn with friends, family, or on social media—it might be the spark someone needs to get help or rethink their actions.

2. Be There for Survivors If someone confides in you, listen with compassion. Don’t ask why they stayed or blame them for the abuse. Instead, remind them it’s not their fault and encourage them to seek help when they’re ready.

3. Speak Out About Coercive Control Coercive control isn’t always easy to spot, but it’s a major factor in abusive relationships. Raise awareness about this form of abuse—it’s now recognised as a criminal offence in many places, including parts of Australia.

4. Take Action in Your Community Get involved with local organisations working to combat gender-based violence. Volunteer, donate, or attend events during the 16 Days of Activism. Many groups are holding marches, workshops, and forums to educate and inspire action.

5. Advocate for Change Push for stronger laws and policies that protect survivors. Strangulation laws and coercive control legislation are critical tools to hold abusers accountable and save lives.

Let’s Break the Silence Together

The 16 Days of Activism isn’t just about raising awareness—it’s about empowering people to take action and support survivors. Violence thrives in silence, but together, we can change the narrative.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, reach out for help. There are services ready to listen and support you.

Every conversation, every act of kindness, and every step towards justice matters. Let’s work together to create a safer, kinder world—not just for these 16 days, but every day.

What will you do to support the 16 Days of Activism? Let’s talk about it in the comments.