OFFICIAL LAUNCH - 25 NOVEMBER, THE LOFT, BETRAMS

The Freedom of Expression Institute and Tshwaranang Legal Advocacy Centre are co-operating to use the annual of 16 Days of Activism on Violence Against Women (25 November-10 December) to highlight the convergence of human rights, specifically the right to freedom of expression and freedom from all forms of violence against women. FXI and Tshwaranang have planned cultural and artistic activities to educate and inform the public about aspects of these rights or where these rights converge. The two organisations have embarked on a joint project to raise awareness around the link between censorship or the silencing of women's voices, media diversity, freedom of expression and gendered violence.

FXI and Tshwaranang will raise awareness through workshops, drama, dance, music, fashion, and an exhibition on paintings and photography. Workshops will cover debates on art and images of violence against women, media and violence against women. They will also cover men's perspective of gender and human rights. The official launch of the campaign will be on November 25 at the Loft in Betrams from 11:00am. Attached is an invitation to the official launch and a programme for the days of activism.

Background on 16 Days

16 Days is an international campaign, raising public awareness on human rights and gendered violence. Initiated in 1991, the 16 Days highlights four dates:

* 25 November commemorated the Mirabal Sisters who were ere brutally murdered by TruZillo dictatorship in Dominican Republic. * 1 December commemorates the anniversary of the Montreal Massacre when a man killed 14 women engineering students for "being feminist". * 10 December commemorates world leaders signing Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Therefore, the 16 Days are celebrated through the world, with countries using the four dates as foundation for country specific activities and events.

For further information contact Mamashoabathe Noko @ 011 403 8403/ 082 838 2262 Naomi Webster @ 011 403 4267 Nanagolo Leopeng @ 011 403 8403/ 082 897 5452