16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence

A post from our Social Justice and Action Group

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence is a United Nations Women-led campaign to end violence against women and girls. It runs every year from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, until 10 December, Human Rights Day.
Gender-based violence is one of Australia’s most significant challenges.

2025’s global theme focuses on the fastest-growing form of abuse: digital violence against women and girls. It is also a reminder that digital safety is central to gender equality.

The Uniting Church of Australia is committed to advocating for a church and world in which all may flourish in equality, safety and respect.

During the coming days of this campaign, you may like to:

• Wear something orange as a symbol of hope for a future free of violence.
• Watch the video, filmed recently at the 2025 President’s Conference on the island of Tongatapu, Tonga. Speakers include Uniting Church President Rev Charissa Suli, voices from Australia (including Emelia Haskey), New Zealand and the Pacific. Watch the video here: https://uniting.church/16-days-of-activism-begins/
• Read the UCA resource Beyond Violence Uniting Church in Australia Assembly.
• Read the recommendations of our state’s Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence royalcommissiondfsv.sa.gov.au
• Pray daily for those experiencing violence and for those supporting them.

A prayer:

Creator God,
We thank you that you each of us is full of dignity and worth.
Help us to see to treat every person with honour and care, and to build relationships that reflect your love.
Amen.