Women in Warzones: Sexual Violence in the Congo
-
Women in Warzones are a group whose mission is "To produce films and photography about hidden injustices, in order that those who suffer might be given a voice and a chance to be made known. Our work is both international and local."
Their film Women in War Zones: Sexual Violence in the Congo "takes an intimate look into the lives of two young women who become sisters during their time at Panzi Hospital. Helene Wamuzila (22) and Bijoux Mateso (13) support each other in their struggle to maintain hope and dignity as they come to grips with their violent and tragic past. They look for hope in each other, God, and the upcoming presidential elections – the first in over 40 years." If you'd like to hear more, click here to go to their website.
Funny Women Awards 2009 Final
-
-
The 2009 Funny Women Awards were a huge success! The winner of this year’s final, held at the Comedy Store in central London on September 21st was Miss London, real name Dionne Hughes, a 20 year old student from London, fighting off competition from 12 other brilliant acts while impressionist Eve Webster and character stand up Jo Selby took second and third place respectively. This excellent event raised over £3,500 for V-Day. We would like to say a special thank you to Jan Ravens for agreeing to host this fantastic night. Check the Funny Women website to keep up to date with their events.
-
Review of Rape Complaints
Harriet Harman, Minister for Women and Equality, Home Secretary Alan Johnson and Solicitor General Vera Baird have announced a review into how rape complaints are handled from when a rape is first disclosed until the court reaches a verdict. Click here to read the full press release.
-
U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton visits DRC
-
On Tuesday the 11th of August, V-Day Congo Director Christine Schuler Deschryver met with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Goma, DRC. Also in the meeting were Dr. Denis Mukwege, Founder of the Panzi Hospital in Bukavu and the V-Men's movement, and Chouchou Namegabe of AFEM Women's Media Association.
Secretary of State Clinton announced that the U.S. Governemnt will provide a $17 million plan to fight sexual violence in DRC. This money will be used to train doctors, supply rape survivors with mobile phones and cameras to document violence, to train a special police force essentially with female police officers to fight the violence against women.
In our recommendations, we have asked for the following:
- To help DRC to control and regulate trade of natural resources (the main cause of the war)
- To help end the impunity of criminals and prosecute offenders in the Congolese Military
- To call upon neighbouring countries to find a political solution with their citizens (militias and other who still live in DRC)
- To help DRC to have a good police force (essentially of women) and army
