Voorschoten Town Hall Turns Orange
The Voorschoten municipal government stands in solidarity with the fight against violence against women, girls, and men. This year, it is once again joining the international “Orange the World” campaign. On Saturday, November 25, City Hall will be lit up in orange. The “Orange the World” flag will fly at the Buitendienst until December 10. And the municipal electronic signs will call on residents to put an end to this violence.
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 homicide, and from forced marriages to female genital mutilation. But it can also involve cyberviolence. Mayor Nadine Stemerdink: “Only by working together can we combat violence against girls, women, and men. It’s closer to home than we think, and it can happen to anyone.”
Safe, anywhere and anytime
In 2023, the campaign’s theme is “Safe, Everywhere, Always.” The campaign aims to raise awareness that violence against women and girls occurs in all kinds of places throughout society—such as at work, at sports clubs, in nightlife settings, at festivals, in educational institutions, in student organizations, and in the home—and that everyone can do something to prevent or stop this violence.
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 call in your situation? Then you can go to a pharmacy and say “mask 19.” This will always trigger a response to get you help.
Ally
Anyone can be an ally in the fight against violence against girls, women, and even men. For example, as an active bystander, you can help prevent violence or harassment; you can call out others for inappropriate behavior; and you can help break the taboo by talking about it. As a family member, friend, or neighbor, you can ask a potential victim what they need. They are best placed to say what they need themselves. Sometimes, help with everyday tasks can be appreciated—such as taking care of the children, running errands, or doing household chores. A combination of emotional and practical support can be very valuable.
Drivers
Orange the World is an annual campaign organized by UN Women. In the Netherlands, the campaign is coordinated by UN Women Netherlands, in collaboration with the Union of Soroptimist Clubs, Zonta Netherlands, Inner Wheel, VVAO, YWCA, and Veilig Thuis.