16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence

On Tuesday December 5, Sligo Traveller Support Group are organising a number of events as part of the ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence’. The 16 Days of Activism is an annual international campaign that begins on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until December 10, Human Rights Day.

The campaign was started by activists at the inauguration of the Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991 and is used as an organising strategy by individuals and groups around the world to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.

To mark the occasion, Sligo Traveller Support Group will be hosting a Coffee Morning on Tuesday December 5, from 11am-2pm at their office at 1a St Annes, Cranmore (F91Y59C). Following the Coffee Morning the groups are inviting people to attend a Candle Light vigil from 4.30pm in memory of and in solidarity with all victims and survivors of gender based violence.

The vigil will take place at the Rockwood Parade Footbridge in Sligo town. Cliona Ward from Sligo Traveller Support Group said: “The issue of gender based violence and abuse, whether it is physical, emotional or financial, is something that impacts people and families from all communities. We are asking as many people as possible to join with us for our events on December 5. Everyone is more than welcome to join us at both our Coffee Morning and vigil. We are also mindful that this is a very difficult subject for many people and we would encourage anyone that is at risk or in danger, or is concerned about a friend or loved one, to please reach out for support."