More than 60 actors, musicians, and writers—including Dame Emma Thompson, Chappell Roan, and Sir Stephen Fry—are lending their voices to a critical funding appeal by the feminist organization The Circle, as the group warns that progress on women’s rights is at risk. The campaign, #MakeAStandfor1in3, launched ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, aims to bolster organizations working to combat gender-based violence, a pervasive issue affecting one in three women worldwide. This gender-based violence appeal comes at a time when funding for gender equality initiatives faces severe cuts.
The Circle, co-founded by singer Annie Lennox, is urgently seeking support to address what it describes as a looming reversal of hard-won gains for women. “One in three represents the appalling ratio of women facing gender-based violence across the world,” Lennox stated, as reported by AOL. “These are real people, not just numbers, and in these turbulent times we are in danger of watching the progress made move into reverse. We must not allow that to happen.”
The breadth of support for the #MakeAStandfor1in3 campaign demonstrates the widespread concern over the current state of women’s rights. Joining Thompson, Roan, and Fry are Hollywood stars Cate Blanchett, Gillian Anderson, and Keira Knightley. Other prominent figures backing the appeal include Spice Girl Mel B, Doctor Who star Jodie Whittaker, and former football manager Sir Alex Ferguson. Musicians Jorja Smith and Hozier, along with Breaking Poor actor Bryan Cranston, have too added their names to the statement.
The Circle’s 17-Year Mission
Annie Lennox founded The Circle in 2009, driven by a desire to create meaningful change for women and girls globally. As Lennox recalled, the organization began with a group of influential women who felt “enough was enough.” The Circle’s approach centers on providing resources and support to women’s rights organizations on the ground, empowering them to deliver essential services and challenge harmful narratives. The organization believes that strong, well-funded local groups are the most effective way to drive lasting progress.
The Growing Threat to Funding for Gender Equality
The timing of the #MakeAStandfor1in3 campaign is particularly crucial given the current climate of financial instability for organizations dedicated to gender equality. The Circle highlights that funding cuts are jeopardizing the ability of these groups to continue their vital work. This is especially concerning given the staggering statistic that one in three women globally will experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, according to the charity. The appeal aims to counteract this trend and ensure that organizations fighting gender-based violence have the resources they necessitate to continue their efforts.
Celebrity Involvement and Raising Awareness
The involvement of high-profile figures like Emma Thompson is expected to significantly amplify the campaign’s reach and raise awareness about the urgent need for increased funding. Thompson’s participation, alongside other well-known faces, underscores the importance of addressing gender-based violence and supporting the organizations working to prevent it. The campaign leverages the influence of these celebrities to draw attention to the issue and encourage individuals to contribute to The Circle’s funding appeal.
How to Support The Circle’s Work
Individuals interested in supporting The Circle’s work can contribute to the #MakeAStandfor1in3 funding appeal through the organization’s website. Donations will directly support organizations working to prevent and address gender-based violence around the world. The Circle also encourages supporters to spread awareness about the campaign on social media using the hashtag #MakeAStandfor1in3. Further information about The Circle’s mission and programs can be found on their official website. The organization’s work is focused on ensuring that women and girls have the resources and support they need to live safe, equal, and empowered lives.
The Circle’s appeal arrives as the world prepares to mark International Women’s Day on March 8th, a day dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women and advocating for gender equality. The organization hopes the campaign will serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenges women face and the importance of continued investment in their rights and well-being. The next update from The Circle regarding the success of the #MakeAStandfor1in3 campaign is expected in late March, following International Women’s Day.
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