Picture this: the sun setting over the legendary Mohenjo Daro site in Sindh, Pakistan, casting a warm glow on a movement that’s rewriting the narrative on gender-based violence. UN Women Pakistan, with a nod of support from the Government of Japan, recently kick started the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign, and it’s making waves with its #Koi Jawaz Nahi initiative.
Mohenjo Daro, an ancient city of the Indus Valley Civilization, echoes with tales of resilience and now serves as the backdrop for a cause that transcends time โ the empowerment and protection of women. Dr. Shakir Shah, the Director of Mohenjo Daro, welcomed the campaign with open arms, emphasizing the strategic and culturally sensitive approach to address gender-based violence. It’s a call to action echoing through the centuries, reminding us that the fight for women’s rights is not just a contemporary concern but a thread woven into the fabric of history.
The 16 Days of Activism is not your ordinary campaign; it’s a global movement commencing on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and concluding on December 10, Human Rights Day. This timeframe is a stark reminder that violence against women is a violation of the most fundamental human rights.
Nasir Aftab Pathan, DIG Larkana, joined the chorus, expressing his honor in supporting the campaign. His belief in the power of collective action to combat gender-based violence echoes through his role as a community leader.ย
“I am honored to support the UN Women’s 16 Days Campaign at Mohenjo Daro. As DIG Larkana, I believe in the power of collective action to address gender-based violence and create a safer community for allโ, he said.
Abdul Waheed Shaikh, Commissioner Larkana, stood in solidarity, emphasizing the need to end gender-based violence and create a society where every individual thrives free from fear.ย
“As Commissioner of Larkana, I stand in solidarity with the UN Women’s initiative at Mohenjo Daro. Embracing our heritage, we amplify the call to end gender-based violence, fostering a society where every individual thrives free from fear.”ย
Now, let’s talk about the heart of the campaign โ Koi Jawaz Nahi. Launched at Mohenjo Daro, it’s set to weave through the cities of Quetta and Peshawar before culminating in the capital, Islamabad. The ingenious concept involves illuminating historical structures in these cities with the color orange, symbolizing a brighter future, free from violence. It’s a visual symphony that transcends words, painting a picture of hope across the architectural canvases of our heritage.
But it’s not just about the lights. The campaign brings the streets alive with a powerful street theater performance centered on the economic stability of women. It’s a tale of empowerment, a narrative that unfolds through the resilience of women who, with the support of the UN Women’s economic empowerment initiative, have turned their lives around. An accompanying exhibition shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes โ home-based workers who have carved a path to financial independence.
Ms. Sharmeela Rassool, the Country Representative of UN Women Pakistan, encapsulates the spirit of the initiative, stating that investing to prevent violence against women is not just a theme; it’s a call for tangible action. By choosing Mohenjo Daro as the launch site, the campaign highlights the resilience of women throughout history and emphasizes the need to protect their rights in the present day.
According to Ms Rassool,
โInvesting to prevent violence against women is not just a theme; it’s a call for tangible action. By choosing Mohenjo Daro as the launch site, we emphasize the resilience of women throughout history and the need to protect their rights in the present day.”ย
As we journey through the illuminated cities and witness the transformative power of art and activism, let’s embrace the theme of the year: “Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women & Girls.” It’s a rallying cry to reach the masses, a call to arms that transcends borders and resonates with the heartbeat of humanity.
In the coming days, let’s keep our eyes on the orange glow lighting up the night, not just as a symbol but as a promise โ a promise of change, of empowerment, and a future where the answer to gender-based violence is unequivocally Koi Jawaz Nahi.
