Edition: María Eugenia Ludueña
Thousands of people will mobilize in Latin America for the International Day to Combat Gender-Based Violence, which is celebrated every November 25. They will seek to make visible and demand public policies that respond to this global problem.
This date was designated by the United Nations General Assembly on December 17, 1999. It was promoted to commemorate the murder of the Mirabal sisters in 1960 in the Dominican Republic, during the regime of Rafael Trujillo.
Minerva, María Teresa and Patria played a central role in the resistance to one of the bloodiest tyrannies in Latin America under the leadership of Trujillo. They were part of the June 14 Revolutionary Movement, founded by Minerva and her husband, where the sisters they called “The Butterflies” took part.
On November 25, 1960, the dictator ordered the secret police to kill them. Their bodies were found at the bottom of a lake, inside a jeep, next to the driver. The regime tried to pass off the murder as a car accident. They had been politically active for more than a decade, were between 25 and 36 years old and five youths were left without a mother because of the crime.
Violence against women in figures
According to UN data it is estimated that 736 million women worldwide have been victims of physical and/or sexual violence at least once in their lives. Only 5% of global government aid is allocated to gender-based violence and less than 0.2% is invested in its prevention.
Although the name “International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women” is commemorated in various parts of the world, it has been changed to “gender violence” to include other identities that suffer patriarchal violence.
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What role does historical remembrance play in the fight against gender-based violence?
Interview Between Alicia Ramirez, Time.news Editor, and Dr. Elena Morales, Gender Studies Expert
Alicia Ramirez (AR): Welcome, Dr. Morales. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the important issue of gender-based violence, especially in light of the upcoming International Day to Combat Gender-Based Violence on November 25th.
Dr. Elena Morales (EM): Thank you, Alicia. It’s a pleasure to be here, especially to address such a critical topic.
AR: This day has a significant historical context, commemorating the brutal murder of the Mirabal sisters in 1960 under Rafael Trujillo’s regime in the Dominican Republic. Why is it crucial to remember their story?
EM: The Mirabal sisters symbolize resistance against tyranny and violence, not only in the Dominican Republic but throughout Latin America. Their legacy serves as a reminder of the consequences of state-sponsored violence and the importance of activism. Each year, we must honor their fight for justice, which resonates with the struggles many women continue to face today.
AR: Absolutely. The statistics can be staggering. The UN estimates that 736 million women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence. What do these numbers tell us about the global state of gender-based violence?
EM: These figures indicate that gender-based violence is a pervasive global crisis. Despite the severity of the issue, only a tiny fraction of government funding is dedicated to combating this violence—just 5% of global aid, with less than 0.2% for preventive measures. This disparity reveals a systemic neglect of women’s safety and well-being in policy priorities.
AR: It sounds like there is a dire need for public policies that effectively address and prevent gender-based violence. What specific measures do you believe are most critical?
EM: First and foremost, we need comprehensive legal frameworks that not only criminalize gender-based violence but also support victims. There must be more funding directed toward prevention programs—education and community awareness initiatives are vital. Additionally, providing accessible support services for survivors, such as shelters and counseling, is essential for healing and empowerment.
AR: Given the historical and cultural context of events like those involving the Mirabal sisters, how can communities be mobilized to raise awareness and advocate for change?
EM: Mobilization is key. Community workshops, social media campaigns, and partnerships with local organizations can amplify voices and foster solidarity among different groups. Grassroots movements have proven effective in advocating for change; they empower individuals to demand action from their governments. Observing the International Day to Combat Gender-Based Violence can unite communities in a powerful display of support and a call to action.
AR: It sounds like there’s a combination of historical remembrance and modern activism at play here. As this day approaches, what message do you hope resonates most with people participating in the mobilizations across Latin America and beyond?
EM: I hope people realize that they are not alone in their struggles. The fight against gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue; it involves everyone. We must stand together to demand a safer environment for all, acknowledging the historical struggles of those who fought before us while also looking forward to a future where violence against women is no longer tolerated.
AR: Thank you, Dr. Morales, for your insights. It’s clear that while we have made progress, there is much work to be done. I look forward to seeing how communities come together on November 25th to honor the past and advocate for the future.
EM: Thank you, Alicia. Let’s continue to raise awareness and push for meaningful change. Together, we can create a world free from violence.