A campaign calling for 16 days of activism aimed at eliminating violence against women in The Bahamas was officially launched yesterday during a ceremony in Rawson Square.

The Zonta Clubs in The Bahamas, along with The Bahamas Crisis Centre, organised the event, which coincided with International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women as well National Women’s Week.

Social Services and Community Development Minister Melanie Griffin delivered the keynote address at Monday’s launch and called for efforts to eliminate violence continue beyond the 16-day challenge.

“Our efforts and our resolve to eliminate gender-based violence must continue beyond events,” she said. “What do we do, do we pack up and we go back to our cozy offices and life? No, what will happen beyond the 16-days? This is a campaign that must continue.”

“And so our efforts to resolve and eliminate gender-based violence must continue and we must say no and unite to end violence against women and girls.”

The minister called for more action to be taken to ensure that women are safe and she noted that violence against women in The Bahamas has become prevalent.

“Anecdotal data suggests that like many other countries around the world, there is a high level of gender-based violence in The Bahamas often with fatal consequences and many persons suffer in silence often to their detriment.”

“The Ministry of Social Services and Community Development continues to work with governmental and non-governmental agencies to eliminate the scourge of all forms of violence from our beautiful shores. We believe that every person deserves to live in a world free from violence and abuse.”

Activities to commemorate the 16 days of activism toward eliminating violence against women will continue through December 10.
Gender-based violence is also one of the issues that is being addressed as a part of National Women’s Week.