Inauguration of Red Bench at Italian Embassy: A Stand Against Gender-Based Violence
On the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, Ambassador Paolo Crudele inaugurated a red bench in the courtyard of the Italian Embassy in Canberra. This bench, a powerful symbol chosen by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, serves as a poignant reminder of the countless women who have fallen victim to violence and the lives that have been lost.
The inauguration of the red bench is part of the embassy's involvement in the 'Orange the World: End Violence Against Women Now' campaign, led by UN Women. This initiative aims to engage civil society in a series of activities spanning sixteen days, calling for an end to violence against women and raising awareness of this critical issue.
Established by a resolution from the UN General Assembly in 2000, this International Day commemorates the tragic murder of the Mirabal sisters, who were brutalized for their stance against the dictatorship in the Dominican Republic. The day serves as a platform to raise awareness among institutions and the global community, uniting efforts at all levels to end both violence and discrimination against women.
This year, the theme will resonate at the upcoming G7 Foreign Ministers Meeting in Fiuggi-Anagni, reiterating Italy's commitment to various international campaigns, encompassing the eradication of female genital mutilation and the battle against early and forced marriages.
In his remarks at the inauguration ceremony, Ambassador Crudele expressed his deep honor at unveiling the red bench on this significant day. The bench not only stands as a memorial for victims of feminicide but also prompts society to reflect on the void left by their absence. Quoting Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, Crudele underscored the necessity of combating all forms of violence and discrimination. He emphasized the importance of supporting paths toward full gender equality, safeguarding the right to education, and ensuring equal opportunities for women and girls in the labor market.
This gesture reinforces Italy's dedication to creating an environment where women can thrive free from violence and discrimination, urging individuals and institutions alike to acknowledge and act against such injustices.
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