This Thanksgiving, my family was very into the spirit of the 16 Days. We found some holiday ribbon upstairs and, with the help of kitchen scissors and safety pins, had our very own “White Ribbons” – ribbons that serve as a pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women – to mark Day 2. Sadly, my sister is abroad this year but we plan on pinning one on her as soon as she reaches the States.
While wearing a ribbon might seem like a small action, it is a fantastic tool for spreading awareness. I remember a Darfur vigil I attended last fall, where we all received green ribbons. I pinned it onto the coat I was wearing then and have never taken it off. Every time I wear that coat now, both strangers and friends ask me about its significance, and I have the opportunity to talk about the conflict. This small action has spurred so many conversations and has sparked real interest in a cause close to my heart. While I can’t wear this shirt every day, I’ll find a more permanent place for my white ribbon to keep the conversation going all year long. From all of us at Save Darfur, Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours – and thank you for all that you do to bring attention to the cause.
The opinions expressed here are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Save Darfur Coalition.
Tags: 16 Days, Darfur, Sudan, Violence Against Women, white ribbon, women
