Chilean women march in protest of violence against women
On November 22 members of the YWCA of Chile participate in a well attended march in the city of Valparaíso. The march was held as part of the the the Chilean Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence campaign, “Watch out: Machismo Kills”. In 2007, 59 women lost their lives at the hands of their intimate partner. Over 700 women expressed their distress regarding the high level of violence against women in Chile. Bearing torches and shouting slogans such as “ love does not kill” the women lead a strong yet peaceful demonstration.
YWCA women were enthusiastic about participating in one of the most massive and important marches ever in the city, with the purpose of creating awareness on violence, especially domestic violence. "The march marked a milestone for me and the association", commented Doxa Bitsacopoulos, a member of YWCA of Valparaíso, “the banners that were used had strong messages calling for change of behaviour and a balanced gender approach. The protest was friendly, had a good atmosphere filled with joy. Women of all ages and from all levels of society participated. This type of event strengthens and increases the interest that we must have as a movement to continue creating awareness."
This march was simultaneously carried out in 16 cities in Chile and demonstrated the strength of the women's movement in Chile. The successful march is a result of women's organisation's efforts in advocacy to put violence against the women on the political agenda. At the march, Chilean women demonstrated that they will not tolerate discrimination, aggression and violence anymore.
