On Monday 25 November 2024, Orange Day will be held to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Established in 1999 by the United Nations, the International Day for the Prevention and Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls takes place every year on 25 November. The date was chosen in memory of the three Mirabal sisters, Dominican activists brutally murdered in their country in 1960.

This day raises awareness of all forms of violence against women in higher education and research, but also in society as a whole (gender-based and sexual violence, domestic violence, etc.) and serves as a reminder that violence against women :

• is a violation of human rights
• is the result of discrimination against women and the persistence of inequalities between men and women,
• can prevent progress in certain areas, such as the elimination of poverty, the fight against HIV/AIDS and peace and security,
• is a global problem.

At Sorbonne University (SU), the Equality mission is offering an “Orange Kit” containing various tools to inform and raise awareness of violence against women (‘Domestic violence meter’, ‘research violence meter’, posters, guide, flyer, key figures, resources, how to be an active witness, etc.). From 22 to 29 November, symbolic actions such as changing the university logo to orange or wearing an orange T-shirt (on 25 November) are also being organised by SU.

At IPSL level, the ‘Equality-Diversity-Quality of Life’ and Climactions groups are joining forces to mark the day, because the fight against violence against women and environmental protection go hand in hand:

• Women, like minorities and vulnerable people in general, are the first victims of climate change and environmental destruction. Women’s point of view in mitigation and adaptation policies needs to be taken into account for actions leading to an inclusive and sustainable world for all.
• The unrestrained exploitation of natural resources on the one hand, and of women’s free or underpaid labour on the other, stem from the same productivist mechanism. A more sober lifestyle, a better division of domestic tasks and a revaluation of care activities are the keys to more equitable societies that favour biodiversity and the sustainability of ecosystems.

The LMD is taking part in this event, using web communication, posters and Orange clothing and accessories.

The LMD Equality-Diversity group