Stava-Murray Marks International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. – State Rep. Anne Stava-Murray, D-Downers Grove, is highlighting the observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, Nov. 25.  The day also marks the beginning of the annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign which runs until Human Rights Day, Dec. 10.

“Violence against women sadly continues to be an issue around the world, including in the United States and in Illinois,” Stava-Murray said. “On this day in particular, but also every day, I call on my legislative colleagues and fellow citizens of all genders and backgrounds to pause and consider the impact of gender-based violence on our society and to recommit themselves to taking action to end it.”

The United Nations formally recognized Nov. 25 as International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on Feb. 7, 2000. The date was chosen based on the Nov. 25, 1960 assassination of the three Mirabel sisters, who were political activists in the Dominican Republic, which was ordered by then-dictator Rafael Trujillo. The U.N. in 1993 defined violence against women as “any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or private life.”

The 16 Days campaign was started in 1991 and is coordinated by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership. The theme for 2022 is “UNITE! Activism to end violence against women and girls.”

“Violence against women is among the most common and destructive human rights violations worldwide, and is complicated by the fact that many instances go unreported due to intimidation, shaming, victim-blaming, social stigma and toxic culture,” Stava-Murray said. “Much has been done over the years, but even more work remains. I call on leaders and citizens everywhere to join me in doing that work. Together, we can build a better world.”

Stava-Murray’s constituent service office is reachable at 630-605-0595 or office@repstavamurray.com.