ACRATH – Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking in Humans – is encouraging all Australians to join the United Nations’ “16 Days of Activism” against gender-based violence, which starts today.
Today, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, marks the beginning of the UN’s 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence, which ends on Human Rights Day on December 10.
Human trafficking, a $150 billion global industry, is one of the greatest examples of violence against women and girls. Millions of women and girls are forced to marry, or to work in slave like conditions for little, or no, pay and no chance of an education.
“Sadly, the COVID-19 pandemic and its lockdown measures have exacerbated these vulnerabilities and have put many women at further risk of violence,” said ACRATH co-founder and President Sr Louise Cleary csb.
Sr Louise said the 16 Days of Activism was an opportunity to expose the extent and impact of human trafficking in Australia and globally.
“Importantly, this campaign is also a chance to meet people who are working in their way, in their field, to combat an aspect of human trafficking. ACRATH is using the campaign to introduce these people who, we hope, will inspire others,” Sr Louise said.
Some of those featured include forced marriage worker Megan Bourke, Catholic Education Melbourne project worker Jess Brady and former diplomat Liz Morris from Canberra.
ACRATH’s will host two events – a webinar on Australia’s slavery past on December 2 and an online prayer and reflection gathering on December 10.
Details: ACRATH 16 Days of Activism resources and information
FULL STORY
16 Days of Activism news release (ACRATH)
