Brescia House School in Bryanston has united for the eighth consecutive year in support of the International One Billion Rising Campaign on 17 February. The symbol chosen for this year’s campaign is one of peace.
The campaign was first founded by Eve Ensler in 2012 to end rape and sexual violence against women. The ‘one billion’ reference is in line with the United Nations statistic that one in every three women will be raped or assaulted in her lifetime – or about one billion.
According to Liz Norman, head of the school’s counselling and community outreach, the campaign is a reminder that we can always achieve a more peaceful world. “It reminds us that no matter what race, creed, gender, religion, language or age we are if we treat everyone in our path with kindness, dignity, non-judgement and respect we are helping to create a more peaceful world. We need to sow what we desire to reap,” Norman said.
Leading up to the event, both the staff and learns had discussions with regard to why everyone must stand together in solidarity and peace to ask for the end to all atrocities as well as the abuse against women and girls.
Norman added that it is all about helping to bring about a better life for women and children across the world.
“Discussions centred on children’s rights and responsibilities, keeping safe, speaking out when people are hurt, learning to stand up against bullies, learning about child abductions and child labour.
“By teaching peace, kindness and tolerance, and by being an example of these values, we all contribute to a better tomorrow.”
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