Update

Just Community of Women and Men - Ecumenical Network of Global Advocates for Gender Justice

16 Days of Ecumenical Advocacy and Action to end rape and violence. 

Beginning on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and ending on 10 December, Human Rights Day. 

The World Council of Churches once again commemorates 16 Days of Activism in alignment with the United Nations’ observances, under the theme 16 Days of Ecumenical Advocacy and Action to End Violence. In this 75th anniversary of the WCC1 and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the World Council of Churches continues to work relentlessly at maintaining the visible unity of faith among believers, which includes our unceasing commitment to end rape and violence.

Thursdays in Black campaign 

The WCC Thursdays in Black campaign is one point of engagement, and they encourage you to participate in their activities, to share what you are doing and broadcast your own activities in recognition of 16 Days.

WCC Plans

At the Ecumenical Centre, the WCC are proposing joint activities with ACT Alliance – a ‘conversatorio’ dialogue and collaboration with the Lutheran World Federation, including morning prayers (note - still open for liturgies and liturgists).

Additionally, plans are in train for an exhibition on Women in the Ecumenical Movement, a webinar on Decolonizing Beauty; recognition of World AIDS Day and International Day for People with Disabilities, launches of varied publications (on HIV and AIDS and the Thursdays in Black tapestry), and a hybrid conversation on Weaponizing Women in War.

The next Just Community of Women and Men update will include liturgy from our Pacific siblings for your use on Break the Silence Sunday (the Sunday prior to November 25). Please share your 16-Days.  Kindly ensure that the information is submitted by November 6, 17:00 EST

^{Above: 31 August 2022, Karlsruhe, Germany: A tapestry supporting the “Thursdays in Black” campaign against gender-based violence hangs at the World Council of Churches' 11th Assembly in Karlsruhe, Germany. The tapestry is designed as a waterfall with messages and images from around the world.} 

^{Photo by Mike DuBose/WCC| Copyright Mike DuBose/WCC}