Ballina community group play their part in important UN campaign
Orange the World Launch with Ballina Soroptimist Club with Left to Right Eileen Diamond, President Ballina Soroptimist Club, Gair Gordon, Marie Morris Murphy, Ghia Harrison, Eileen Kelly, Laura Kenny, Laura Doherty, Noeline Cummins & Frances Walkin. The Orange the World campaign is held annually during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence from the 25th of November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women to the 10th of December, International Human Rights Day. Picture: John O'Grady.
Ballina Soroptimists, with the support of the local community, have highlighted the UN Orange the World campaign, which calls for the elimination of violence against women.
November 25th marked the UN International Day of the elimination of violence against women and the start of 16 days of activism against gender violence, ending on December 10.
The local Soroptimists branch have changed the colour of one of the benches along the River Moy to orange and have erected orange banners alongside to highlight the event.
“The colour orange symbolises a brighter future, free of violence, it also serves as a means of demonstrating solidarity in eliminating all forms of violence,” explains Ballina Soroptimist club president Eileen Diamond.
"The simple message to women is ‘You are not alone’."
A permanent plaque has been erected on the wall nearby with a helpline number. The group have also distributed information cards throughout the town.
Two orange floral arrangements are on display in St Muredachs Cathedral and St Michaels Church in remembrance of all those who have suffered and died as a result of domestic violence. There is also an orange window display in Ballina Community Centre. A painting by Foxford-based artist Harry Feeney promoting the campaign is also on display upstairs in Ballina Library with all helpline contact details displayed beside it.
“We want to thank Declan Turnbull from Ballina MD for his support and assistance and also Hugh Ginty, Ginty Monumental Sculptures for their generosity. Our thanks also to St Muredachs Cathedral, St Michael’s Church and Ballina Library for their support,” said Ms Diamond.
