Concerned residents of Chatham-Kent are saying "no" to gender-based violence.
The seventh annual "Say No to Violence" Rally on the Bridge was held on Wednesday afternoon in downtown Chatham by the Zonta Club of Chatham-Kent.
Over a dozen people took part in the demonstration, which is mean to bring attention to people across the globe who suffer the effects of sexual assault, spousal abuse, human trafficking, rape, female circumcision, and other crimes.
The local Zonta club is part of the larger international organization and Zonta clubs around the world hosted similar events on Wednesday. The women's rights organization advocates for equality, advancing the status of women and ending gender-based violence.
The rally was held in correlation to International Day for the Elimination of Violence Towards Women, which is recognized annually on November 25 and also kicks off 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
"Throughout the world today, Zonta clubs worldwide will be doing things to raise awareness about gender-based violence, specifically violence against women," explained Advocacy Chair of Zonta Club of Chatham-Kent Hilary Henley. "The 16 Days of Activism begin on November 25 and end on December 10, which is International Humans Right day."
Henly said bringing attention to the issues is more important now than ever, as many people work from home during the pandemic and are dealing with limited ways to escape abusive partners.
"A lot of the help that we do, we think underdeveloped countries. But we know that this COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions on our movements have created horrific situations for people who are experiencing domestic violence," she explained.
Participants in the Chatham rally typically walk back and forth on a local bridge during the annual demonstration. However, Henly said they held a static demonstration this year to allow for better social distancing.
For anyone who was unable to attend but would like to learn more about the cause and help out, Henly said the best place to start is by researching gender equality, human rights, and violence against women.
"We are always looking for new members for our club," she said. "I would encourage people to do some research because I think people are really unaware of the depth of the problem. [We have signs that say] 'no to human trafficking' and a lot of people think, 'well that doesn't happen here.' In fact, the [Highway] 401 corridor is the main corridor for human trafficking."
