Voorschoten Town Hall Turns Orange

Voorschoten is once again participating in the international Orange the World campaign. The Voorschoten town hall will be lit up in orange for 16 days to raise awareness about violence against women and girls. This year, the campaign asks everyone: What is your role in preventing violence against women?

Nearly half of all women and girls in the Netherlands experience violence at some point in their lives. This ranges from sexual harassment to sexual assault and rape, from domestic violence to manslaughter, and from forced marriages to female genital mutilation—but it can also include cyberviolence. Mayor Stemerdink:“Every day, women and girls are abused. This happens in Voorschoten, too. That is unacceptable. Together, we can do something about it. That’s why the town hall is lighting up in orange to draw attention to this important issue, which is closer to home than we think.”

Call Veilig Thuis Haaglanden toll-free and anonymously at 0800-2000

Harassment or violence by a partner, family member, acquaintance, or anyone else is unacceptable—always. Talk to someone you trust. Report it to get help and to prevent others from experiencing the same thing. Call Veilig Thuis Haaglanden toll-free and anonymously at 0800-2000. In emergencies, always call 112.

Is it difficult for you to make a phone call right now? If so, you can contact the pharmacy by saying “mask 19.” They will always take action to help you. 

As a family member, friend, or neighbor, you can ask a potential victim what he or she needs. The person himself or herself is best suited to say what that is. Sometimes, help with everyday tasks can be appreciated—for example, taking care of the children, running errands, or doing household chores. A combination of emotional and practical support can be very valuable.

The driving forces in Voorschoten are the Zonta and Soroptimist clubs

Orange the World is an annual campaign organized by UN Women and promoted in the Netherlands by Zonta and Soroptimist. Both are global network organizations of female professionals, run by and for women. Members use their knowledge and skills to improve the status of women. This involves promoting human rights for women and girls, as well as ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, economic independence, and quality healthcare. Together, these service organizations have over 200 years of combined experience and 120,000 members worldwide. They also hold consultative status with the United Nations.

The Voorschoten town hall will be lit up in orange from November 25 (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) through December 10 (Human Rights Day).