Violence against women and girls is a global issue. It continues to be a serious human rights violation and often affects girls and women across generations, cultures, and circumstances. The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is observed annually and focuses on this serious problem, aiming to reduce and eliminate gender-based violence.
Every year on November 25, we are reminded of the work that still needs to be done. It encourages individuals, communities, and governments to stand together and challenge the systems that facilitate abuse.
At White Law PLLC, we are proud to support this movement by advocating for survivors of sexual abuse and holding perpetrators accountable in the fight against violence.
Our Lansing sexual abuse lawyers work tirelessly to provide survivors with compassionate representation, helping them seek justice and contribute to the broader effort to eliminate gender-based violence.
What Is International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women?
Across the world, approximately 736 million women report experiencing sexual violence or physical abuse, according to UN Women. In fact, as much as 25% of young girls are abused by their partners. The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is a global observance dedicated to addressing violence against women and girls.
Established by the United Nations in 1999, this day calls for awareness, prevention, and accountability to end gender violence. From domestic abuse and human trafficking to systemic discrimination, the challenges women face are vast, but that does not mean there is no solution. By focusing on advocacy, education, and survivor support, we can dismantle the systems that allow abuse to continue.
Globally, nearly one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This shows that society as a whole has let women down by failing to protect them.
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is an opportunity to discuss actionable change, encourage dialogue, and introduce initiatives that empower women and hold perpetrators accountable.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
How the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women Came to Be
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was established by the United Nations General Assembly back in 1999. This day was created to raise global awareness about gender violence and promote concrete solutions to prevent and eliminate it.
The date, November 25, was chosen to honor the Mirabal sisters, three activists from the Dominican Republic who were assassinated in 1960 for their political resistance.
Feminist movements in Latin America’s grassroots efforts during the 1980s kicked off these initiatives. The sisters highlighted the widespread violence faced by women and girls and advocated for international recognition of these issues. Their efforts led to the UN adopting the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women in 1993, which laid the groundwork for this profound annual observance.
Since it was officially implemented, this day has grown into a global movement supported by governments, organizations, and individuals worldwide. Current efforts include public campaigns, educational initiatives, and policy advocacy aimed at eliminating gender violence. This day should serve as a reminder of our ongoing fight for women’s safety, equality, and dignity in all aspects of life.
Recognizing Violence Against Women
Violence against women often remains hidden, unreported, or dismissed due to stigma, fear, and systemic failures. Recognizing the different forms this violence takes is a crucial first step in addressing it.
Some unfortunately common types of violence against women include:
- Child marriage
- Child sexual exploitation
- Emotional manipulation
- Female genital mutilation
- Femicide
- Forced labor
- Harassment
- Harmful traditional practices
- Honor-based violence
- Human trafficking
- Intimate partner violence
- Marital rape
- Modern slavery
- Online harassment
- Physical abuse
- Rape
- Sexual exploitation
- Sexual violence
- Stalking
Violence against women impacts more than just the immediate victim. It creates cycles of trauma, limits economic opportunities, and perpetuates inequality across generations. Addressing these issues requires systemic reform and a commitment to supporting survivors while advocating for meaningful change.
We know how to get our clients the results they need in the toughest legal arenas.
Legal Options for Women Who Have Been Abused
Women who have experienced abuse often face overwhelming challenges as they seek justice and healing. However, the civil court system gives you multiple opportunities to hold abusers accountable and secure compensation for the victims’ trauma and medical expenses.
Here are some of the potential legal options that may be available to you if you have been subject to abuse or violence:
Justice in Criminal Court
Your abuser and anyone who facilitated the abuse may be held accountable for their actions in criminal court. Defendants may face serious charges, such as assault, sexual assault, domestic violence, or stalking, depending on the nature of the offense. Convictions can result in penalties such as imprisonment, fines, mandatory counseling, and restraining orders.
For survivors of gender violence, participating in a criminal case may involve testifying against your abuser or providing evidence to support the criminal charges.
Law enforcement and prosecutors handle the investigation and trial, which gives you the opportunity to focus on your recovery. Although criminal cases do not offer financial compensation to victims, they ensure abusers and facilitators of abuse are held accountable.
Filing a Civil Lawsuit
In addition to pursuing criminal charges, you may have the right to seek compensation through a personal injury lawsuit with help from a Lansing personal injury lawyer.
These claims can demand compensation for damages resulting from physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial losses caused by the abuse you endured. If your claim is successful, you may have access to the financial resources you need to rebuild your life.
When pursuing a claim for personal injury, our investigation will include assembling powerful evidence such as statements from witnesses, medical records, any available police reports, and any other documentation of the abuse that victims have endured.
Unlike criminal cases, civil claims focus on compensating you for your suffering rather than punishing the offender. With a reputable attorney on your side, you can get the legal support and advice you need to bring your abuser to justice.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
Get the Support You Need. Contact a Compassionate Sexual Abuse Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love has been impacted by gender violence, taking action could be your best opportunity to regain control of your life and demand justice.
White Law PLLC is committed to helping survivors of abuse get the guidance they need when they need it most. To put our 20+ years of experience to work for you, simply fill out our secured contact form or call our office to schedule your confidential consultation as soon as today.
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