Saying No to violence

THE people of Almuñecar gathered to protest against the scourge of gender violence.

A good crowd formed in front of the town hall to mark International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Associations, business-owners and residents from Almuñecar and La Herradura were taking a stand against gender-based violence in an event which took place in the Plaza de la Constitucion. 

Town Mayor Trinidad Herrera delivered a speech highlighting the council’s and public institutions’ full support for the victims.

Participants created the word NO with candles in the middle of the square and released balloons into the sky in a truly emotional event. 

“Our commitment is essential. It is necessary to condemn, individually and collectively the violence, the discrimination and the inequality that women face,” said Herrera.

So far this year 46 women have died at the hands of their partners or former partners, and 758 have lost their lives since 2003. It is estimated that one in two women has experienced some sort of physical or sexual violence from their partner in their lifetime. 

Other events were also held to raise awareness and take decisive action to put an end to the global scourge of gender-based violence and to start creating a world where women and girls are safe in their homes and communities.