Violence against women fact for Dec. 6

[December 06, 2013]  Zonta International seeks to advance the status of women worldwide by improving the legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status of women at the global and local levels through service and advocacy.

With the generosity and collective action of Zontians and friends around the world, Zonta International has supported projects in 46 countries, provided scholarships and awards to women around the globe, and been a powerful advocate for change in our local and international communities, thereby transforming the world and women's place in it.

The local Zonta organization wants to help raise awareness of the crime of violence against women locally and around the world by publishing 16 facts, one per day, during the 16 Days of Activism.

December 6 -- day 12

Fact 12: School-based programs to prevent dating violence can prevent violence against women.

Safe Dates is a school and community initiative that targets 13-15 year-old girls and boys in the United States of America. The program addresses gender norms and equality early in life, before stereotypes develop. It includes a 10-session educational curriculum, training for providers of support services, and a theatre production. An evaluation found that participants reported less psychological abuse and sexual and physical violence against their current dating partner one month after the program ended and four years later.
 

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