On December 1st of each year, the world observes World AIDS Day to spread awareness and hold world governments and international leaders accountable for promises and pledges to help halt the pandemic. This year’s theme is Universal Access and Human Rights. It is my hope that by promoting human rights, education, and gender equality, especially within at-risk populations such as women in Sudan, the world’s efforts to end the global AIDS pandemic will be more effective.
According to the United Nations Development Programme, Sudan has one of the highest rates of HIV/AIDS in North Africa and the Middle East. Women and girls are disproportionally affected due to their vulnerable status and the use of rape as a weapon of war in Sudan. On Day 7 of the 16 Days campaign, we remember the words of Hilary Clinton – “women’s rights are human rights.” As we work to bring peace to Sudan, we must not allow the marginalization of women and the myriad issues they face to continue.
Today, I am asking everyone in my network on Facebook and Twitter to update their status to help spread awareness about the plight of women in Sudan. In Darfur, rape is used as a weapon of war—a weapon that has lasting physical and psychological effects. Today, tomorrow, and the next day, be the voice of these women—help build awareness by telling your networks to stand up for women’s rights. Together we can give the women of Sudan access to much needed care and empower them to be agents of change in their communities.
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, Activism, Awareness, Violence Against Women
