Day One 16 Days - Why

Today marks International Day for the Elimination of Violence against women. It triggers 16 days of worldwide activism to raise awareness of the many atrocities and oppressions suffered by women and girls globally. It also aims to provoke action by both individuals and governments. Things can change, we have to believe it, the lives and wellbeing of women and girls relies on it.

This cause has been important to me for many years and my faith has only made me more committed and more sure that this is the right thing to be doing. In the Old Testament in the Bible, Micah 6:8 says "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God". This verse states really strongly that justice and mercy can co-exist. We can seek justice but still have mercy for a fallen world. The only way to do that well is to be humble, recognise the part we all play in upholding systems of oppression and how "there but by the grace of God, go I". In the New Testament you see Jesus speaking with and taking every opportunity to elevate women to an equal par with men, this was completely counter culture to the time he lived in. He didn't shy away to protect his reputation, he built his reputation on justice, mercy and humility.

So, this 16 days I'll be raising awareness of what goes on against women both here in the UK and abroad, telling you about various causes and charities to sit up and take notice of. One of them I'll be raising money for and I've chosen The Bramber Bakehouse, an extraordinary charity supporting women escaping exploitation locally here on the South Coast of England. You can read more about them here and you can donate to my fundraiser here.

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