Events and initiatives for the Day against violence against women

On November 25, we mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. To make sure we are prepared, to keep fighting, to be present, and to protest alongside our sisters, there are dozens of initiatives all over Italy starting from November 23. Unfortunately, the issue is as relevant as ever. Donald Trump, accused of harassment by several women, is once again the President of the United States. The meeting between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson (also among those accused) attracted worldwide attention. Gen Z youth are increasingly less open to feminism, and here at home, patriarchy is still a denied reality, something seldom discussed, whose existence is often doubted.

Protests against violence against women to join

In this context, forming alliances, making ourselves seen and heard, and participating in marches, debates, and gatherings is crucial. For example, Nonunadimeno Milano is organizing both local events, such as the demonstration starting from Piazza Oberdan on November 25 at 6:30 PM, and buses to attend the national demonstration in Rome on the 23rd. To finance transportation, they have announced dinners and support meetings for discussion and debate. This year's motto? Disarm the patriarchy. For the record, the same national demonstration will also take place in Palermo to gather women (all women, as the invitation is intersectional and transfeminist) from southern Italy. In general, the local branches of Nonunadimeno are organizing locally, so checking their Instagram profiles and website is a good way to stay informed. 

Events in Rome and Florence

In Lazio, besides the aforementioned march, the Casa del Cinema in Rome, in collaboration with the Una Nessuna Centomila Foundation, will screen themed films on November 25. Also on view is a photo exhibition by Claudio Iannone, showcasing unpublished shots from the set of Paola Cortellesi's film, C'è ancora domani. In Florence, the Casa delle Donne will inaugurate the first edition of Zero T, with days dedicated to presentations, workshops, debates, and workshops all focused on the theme of gender violence. 

And in the rest of Italy?

Further south, in Naples, Anci Campania has organized a flash mob near the Royal Palace of Naples on November 25. In Bologna, the network NoiNo.org has prepared a full program and a school kit, and will host - among other events - two sessions in high schools on November 26 in collaboration with the theatre company PartecipArte. Speaking of students, the University of Catania has already mobilized starting from Friday, November 22, with an exploratory walk titled "Perceptions of Risk in a Public Park." This is just a brief list of events, aimed at encouraging everyone (yes, everyone) to research what’s happening locally, to participate, and to express fears, ideas, and perspectives. Because the fight against patriarchy begins with debate, grows through education and dialogue, and - we hope - finds resolution in the community.

Brand Initiatives

Sometimes, associations collaborate with brands to maximize their reach and launch targeted campaigns and initiatives. For example, AW Lab has partnered with donnexstrada to transform its stores into "Punti Viola," which offer support and assistance to victims of gender-based violence through a network of psychologists, lawyers, and volunteers. Sephora Italia, on the other hand, launched the Getting Ready campaign in collaboration with Pangea, aiming to raise awareness about recognizing controlling behaviors as real forms of violence.