Violence Against
Women
Presented by Jan Mancinelli, Women’s
Resource Center and
Sharon Mortensen, Council on Domestic
Violence and Sexual Assault
(Shelterhouse)
Recognition of the Problem

Globally, gender-based violence is the most
pervasive and least recognized human rights
violation. It affects every race, class, culture,
ethnicity, age and country. Women are potential
victims of violence at every stage of their lives.
Prevalence of Violence Against
Women

For women and girls 16–44
years old, violence is a
major cause of death and
disability. A World Bank
study on ten selected risk
factors facing girls and
women in this age group,
found rape and domestic
violence more dangerous
than cancer, motor vehicle
accidents, war and
malaria.

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In no country in the world
are women safe from
domestic and intimate
violence. Half of the women
who die from homicides are
killed by their current or
former husbands or partners.
More than 2 million girls
between the ages of 5 and
15 are trafficked, sold or
coerced into prostitution each
year.
Prevalence of Violence Against
Women
“Our goal is clear: an end to these inexcusable crimes whether it is the use of rape as a weapon of war, domestic
violence, sex trafficking, so-called “honour” crimes or
female genital mutilation/cutting. We must address the
roots of this violence by eradicating discrimination and
changing the mindsets that perpetuate it.”

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
Message for the International Day for the
Elimination of Violence against Women
25 November 2009
Zonta’s Position on Violence Against
Women

The human rights of women and girls are an
inalienable, integral and indivisible part of universal
human rights. Zonta's efforts to prevent violence
against women worldwide focus on: raising awareness
of, and improving education about, violence against
women and children; implementing, promoting and
enforcing local laws and policies that protect women
and victims of violence; and providing medical, legal,
rehabilitation and reintegration services for survivors
of violence. In cooperation with the United Nations, its
agencies and other NGOs, Zonta International has
assisted victims and potential victims of violence and
human trafficking around the globe.
What About Closer to Home?

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One out of five Michigan women reports some type of
violence in a relationship – yet it is estimated that 73% of
domestic violence incidents go unreported.
Dating violence is prevalent. 40% of 14-17 year olds
reported knowing someone their age who has been hit or
beaten by a dating partner.
1 in 4 American women will be raped or physically
assaulted in their lifetime
Violence Against Women: It’s Time ….
To Get Involved!
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Every two minutes someone in the United States is
sexually assaulted.
1 in 6 women in America will be a victim of sexual
assault -1 in 33 men will be a victim of sexual assault
An incident of domestic violence takes place every 13
seconds in the United States
Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to
women in the United States
Why Violence Against Women?
Imbedded in culture – oppression of
women
 Media portrayal of women

What Can You Do To Help?

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Offer support and assistance to survivors
Don’t stand by – speak up when you see
something that causes you concern
Model respect in your behavior with others
Report any emergency
What Can Zonta Club Do To Help?

Ideas from agencies serving those
impacted by domestic and sexual violence
included:
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Helping with web design/social media
Doing yard work, office work, etc.
Offering skilled services
Making meals for residents
Adopting and redesigning shelter rooms
Funding for client transportation (gas cards or
bus vouchers)
What Can Zonta Club Do To Help?

More ideas:
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Offering scholarships for local women
Organizing food and paper product drives
Donating gift cards for local stores
Gardening
Serving on local task forces (such as human
trafficking, domestic violence, sexual assault)
Assisting with awareness month activities
Providing funding and support for billboard
campaigns
What Can Zonta Club Do To Help?

More ideas:
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Helping to plan and staff a Christmas/holiday
party
Conducting fundraising activities such as
hosting an awareness party (inviting a speaker
on this topic and receiving a collection at the
end)
Serving as a court watch volunteer or SANE
advocate
Serving on a board of directors
Violence Against Women

Questions?