Dear Friends,
It’s that time of year again when we unite, reflect, and act. Together, we “Orange the World” to support the UN Women’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This annual campaign runs from November 25th—the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women—to December 10th, Human Rights Day.
This year’s global theme is “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls”. As we mark nearly three decades since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the urgency to address gender-based violence has never been clearer. Shockingly, in 2023, someone’s partner or family member was intentionally killed every 10 minutes. These harrowing statistics highlight the crisis we face. Let’s make it known: there is #NoExcuse for violence against women and girls.
What’s Happening in Second Life?
For the fourth year, We Orange The World – Second Life is proud to host a vibrant program at Artsville, Second Life’s cultural hub. From November 25 to December 10, 2024, Artsville will shine in shades of orange, symbolizing our collective hope for a brighter, violence-free future.
Here’s what to look forward to during this 16-day campaign:
Art Exhibits & Installations
Explore thought-provoking exhibits and installations designed to ignite conversations, evoke emotions, and inspire change. Artsville’s talented artists have poured their hearts into creating immersive visual experiences that embody this year’s theme.
Live Performances & Parties
Enjoy live music and DJ-led parties that energize and unite our community. Together, we’ll dance, sing, and share the message of solidarity.
Poetry and Words of Empowerment
Let the power of words move you during special poetry readings that highlight the strength, resilience, and courage of women and girls worldwide.
Special Gifts
Our partners have prepared exclusive gifts for visitors, symbolizing unity and the fight for gender equality.
Calling All Bloggers, Explorers, and Photo Enthusiasts!
Help us “color” Second Life and social media with orange! Share your experiences from Artsville, capturing its glowing hues and the spirit of the campaign. Post your photos on Flickr and other platforms using the hashtag #WeOrangeTheWorldSL.
Why This Campaign Matters
Gender-based violence isn’t confined to the physical world. It exists in virtual spaces, including Second Life, where it takes the form of harassment, emotional abuse, and psychological harm. Such behavior is not only devastating but also violates SL’s Community Standards. Let’s take a stand together—reminding everyone that respect is essential in both our virtual and physical lives.
This campaign is a rallying cry: Let’s raise awareness, demand change, and make a difference. Together, we can create a world where women and girls feel safe, valued, and respected—both in-world and beyond.
Join Us!
Don’t miss out on the energy, inspiration, and unity that this campaign brings to Artsville. Together, we’ll amplify the message and work toward a brighter future.
Find More Information:
Contact Project Head: Jerzzie Reece-Redstar
Follow on Facebook: We Orange The World SL
Let’s Orange the World!
With hope and determination,
The We Orange The World – Second Life Team
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this event is more than needed , it is high time for action .My adult daughter is a victim herself and it is tearing me apart , because she is in the US and I am in Europe and cannot help her
blessed be
marlene (kitty starlight)
Dear Marlene,
Thank you for sharing your heart-wrenching story. My heart goes out to you and your daughter. It takes immense courage to open up about such personal pain, and your words resonate deeply with the purpose of this event: raising awareness and fostering action to end violence against women and girls.
Though you may feel helpless being far from your daughter, your love and support can still make a difference. I encourage you to share resources with her that may provide the support she needs:
United States: National Resources
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Website: http://www.thehotline.org
Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Text: Text START to 88788
Confidential, 24/7 support for victims and their loved ones.
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
Website: http://www.rainn.org
Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Support for survivors of sexual violence, including counseling and legal advice.
StrongHearts Native Helpline (for Native Americans and Alaskan Natives)
Phone: 1-844-7NATIVE (1-844-762-8483)
Website: strongheartshelpline.org
Love is Respect (for young adults and teens)
Website: http://www.loveisrespect.org
Phone: 1-866-331-9474
Text: Text LOVEIS to 22522
National Center for Victims of Crime
Website: http://www.victimsofcrime.org
Europe: Domestic Violence Hotlines
Women’s Aid (UK)
Phone: 0808 2000 247 (Free and 24/7)
Website: http://www.womensaid.org.uk
FRA: EU Agency for Fundamental Rights
Hotline Directory: End Violence Against Women Hotline Directory
Europe-Wide Hotline for Violence Against Women (Supported by WAVE)
Website: http://www.wave-network.org
Includes a directory of country-specific resources.
Global Resources
UN Women – Virtual Knowledge Centre
Website: http://www.endvawnow.org
Women’s Aid International Directory
Website: http://www.womenshelpline.org
Safety Net Project (Technology and Abuse Support)
Website: http://www.nnedv.org
Mental Health & Emotional Support
Crisis Text Line
US: Text HOME to 741741
Canada: Text HOME to 686868
UK: Text HOME to 85258
Befrienders Worldwide (global emotional support network)
Website: http://www.befrienders.org
As her mother, offering a listening ear and reminding her that she is not alone in this fight can be incredibly powerful. You may also consider connecting with organizations in Europe to help you process and support her from afar.
You are not alone, Marlene. There is help for both you and your daughter, and together, we can work towards a brighter future.
Blessed be,
Violet