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16 - 365 days of activism against gender based violence
Women In Politics Support Unit (WIPSU)
December 06, 2011

Gender based Violence in all its forms impacts on women's ability to participate in political processes at all levels, 365 days of the year.

The 25th of November every year is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women in all its forms. On this day we remember the three sisters, Patria, Minerva, and Maria Teresa who were born to Enrique Mirabal and Maria Mercedes Reyes (Chea) in 1924, 1927 and 1935 respectively in the Cibas region of the Dominican Republic. These 3 political activists were assassinated on the 25th of November 1960. The sisters, referred to as the "Inolvidables Mariposas", the "Unforgettable Butterflies" have become a symbol against victimization of women. The memory of the Mirabal sisters and their struggle for freedom and respect for human rights for all has transformed them into symbols of dignity and inspiration.

As we continue the call for 50/50 representation in public office we are mindful of the gender violence that women encounter in their daily lives and as they claim their right to participate and be represented in all political spaces.

Women in Politics Support Unit joins the women of Zimbabwe and the world in commemorating 365 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence and call for peace in all political processes.

Visit the WiPSU fact sheet

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