Did you know that you can recognize and respond to violence without someone verbally telling you they’re in danger?
A hand sign is used as a signal for help in different situations where the victim can’t verbalize that they need help.
The more people know this sign, the more likely someone will recognize it and respond to a call for help.
The hand signal allows victims of violence to discreetly call for help by opening their palm, folding the thumb inward, and then covering the thumb with the remaining fingers. Watch the video showing the help signal HERE.
In June, the Institute celebrated Orange Day in collaboration with the Sarajevo War Theater (SARTR), resulting in this video.
For almost a decade, the Institute for Youth Development KULT has tirelessly contributed to the celebration of Orange Day through various activities. Orange Day—dedicated to raising awareness about gender equality and combating violence against women and girls—is an important topic we need to talk about so victims of violence would feel encouraged to speak up and so we can ensure a better, safer life free from violence for all women and girls in society.
Every month, the Institute organizes various activities to raise public awareness about violence against women and girls, educate young people on reporting and preventing violence, promote gender equality and the rights of women and girls, and offer support to victims of violence.
Over the years, many institutions, associations, informal groups, and individuals have joined the Institute in celebrating Orange Day. They recognized the importance of this day and the issue of violence against women and girls as a problem affecting the entire community.
Violence against women and girls is a gross violation of basic human rights and is a widespread problem across the world, with Bosnia and Herzegovina being no exception. The preliminary results of the analysis on the position and needs of youth conducted by the Institute for Youth Development KULT in 2021 revealed that violence, in various forms, is prevalent among younger members of society. However, many young people do not understand or recognize violence, and stereotypical attitudes about gender roles for women and men are still prevalent.
By noticing, recognizing, and sharing signals for help, we can raise public awareness about this issue and potentially help someone escape violence and change their life.
The Institute for Youth Development KULT thanks the Sarajevo War Theater for recognizing the importance of this topic and for their role in this successful partnership!
Leave a comment