International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women: Canary Islands Municipality Unveils Commemorative Events

The municipality of the Canary Islands has announced a series of events to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed globally on November 25th. This initiative is part of a broader effort to raise awareness and combat gender-based violence, a pressing issue that affects communities worldwide.

Events and Activities

The commemorative program includes a diverse range of activities designed to engage the public, promote education, and support victims of gender violence. Here are some of the key events:

• Conferences and Workshops: Experts in gender studies and social workers will conduct conferences and workshops to discuss the root causes of violence against women, the impact on victims, and strategies for prevention. These sessions will be held at the Municipal Center for Women in the capital city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
• Art Exhibitions: Local artists will showcase their work in an exhibition titled "Voices Against Violence," which will be displayed at the city's central art gallery. The exhibition aims to use art as a medium to express the experiences and struggles of women affected by violence.
• March Against Violence: On November 25th, a march will take place through the streets of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, starting from the city hall and ending at the Plaza de Santa Ana. The march is open to the public and will feature speeches from local leaders and survivors of gender violence.
• Support Services: The municipality will also provide special support services for victims of gender violence, including counseling sessions, legal advice, and emergency shelters.

Key Figures and Organizations

Several key figures and organizations are involved in organizing these events:

• Mayor of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: The mayor, Augusto Hidalgo, has been a strong advocate for women's rights and has pledged the municipality's full support for these initiatives.
• Canary Islands Women's Institute: This institute, dedicated to promoting women's rights and combating gender violence, is a primary partner in organizing the events.
• Local NGOs: Various non-governmental organizations focused on women's rights and anti-violence campaigns are collaborating with the municipality to ensure the success of these events.

Additional Context

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is a United Nations observance that was established in 1999. It marks the date of the assassination of the Mirabal sisters, three Dominican political activists who were brutally murdered in 1960 for their opposition to the regime of Rafael Trujillo.

In Spain, including the Canary Islands, there has been a significant push to address gender violence through legislation, public awareness campaigns, and support services. The Organic Law 1/2004 on Integrated Protection Measures against Gender Violence, also known as the "Ley de Violencia de Género," is a cornerstone of Spain's efforts to combat this issue.

Call to Action

The municipality is urging all residents, including expats, to participate in these events and show their support for the elimination of violence against women. By attending the conferences, exhibitions, and march, individuals can contribute to a collective effort to raise awareness and create a safer, more equitable society for all.