Perth service will highlight gender-based violence

Perth to Highlight Gender-Based Violence in Service

A Perth church service will shine a light on gender-based violence this Monday, November 25. Set to take place at St Matthew’s Church on Tay Street at 1.30pm, the ecumenical service is a collaborative effort between local churches and Christian Aid, an international development organization. This service marks the beginning of the United Nations 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign, an annual initiative aimed at raising awareness about the prevalence of violence and sexual abuse experienced by women and girls worldwide.

Charlie Meiklejohn, community relations and fundraising manager at Christian Aid, emphasized the importance of launching this awareness campaign, which spans from November 25 (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day). Meiklejohn highlighted the disturbing reality faced by many women and girls, with approximately one in three experiencing violence at some point in their lives. The service will include prayers for these individuals and a commitment to combat this violation of human rights.

MSP for Mid-Scotland and Fife, Claire Baker, has promoted Monday’s service with a motion to the Scottish Parliament to increase awareness about the event and the significance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign. Additionally, First Minister John Swinney, also MSP for Perthshire North, will be speaking at an event in Perth and Kinross to kick off this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. The event will feature a keynote from Mr. Swinney and a special Rock Choir performance.

Elsewhere in Perthshire, the Perth Film Society will support the campaign by screening ‘She Said’ on November 28 at Perth Theatre. This film, directed by Maria Schrader and based on the investigation of Harvey Weinstein, tells the story of empowering women to speak out against sexual assault in Hollywood.

Tickets for the screening are available for purchase online and in person. With various discounts and offers, the community is encouraged to participate in the event and contribute to the fight against gender-based violence.

Insights and Summary:
The initiative in Perth to highlight gender-based violence through a church service and film screening demonstrates the community’s commitment to raising awareness and taking action against this critical issue. By involving local churches, organizations like Christian Aid, and prominent figures such as MSPs and the First Minister, the campaign is expected to garner significant attention and support. The choice of screening ‘She Said’ further amplifies the message of empowerment and justice for survivors of gender-based violence. It is heartening to see communities coming together to address such important social issues and work towards creating a safer and more equitable society.