Global celebrity coalition calls for action as one in three women face gender-based violence
A powerful coalition of stars, including Dame Emma Thompson, pop star Chappell Roan and author Sir Stephen Fry, have joined singer Annie Lennox to demand more support for women’s rights organizations around the world.
Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, more than 60 public figures, including Hollywood actors Cate Blanchett, Gillian Anderson and Keira Knightley, have lent their voices to global feminist organization The Circle’s urgent funding appeal #MakeAStandfor1in3. The campaign aims to tackle gender-based violence, which the charity highlights affects one in three women worldwide in their lifetime. More importantly, funding for organizations advocating for gender equality is currently under serious threat.
Annie Lennox, co-founder of The Circle, underlined the seriousness of the situation: “One in three represents the terrifying proportion of women experiencing gender-based violence globally. These are not just numbers, they are real people, and in these turbulent times, we are in danger of reversing the progress that has been made. We must not let this happen.”
Spice Girl Mel B is also included in the extensive list of those supporting The Circle’s call. Doctor Who star Jodie Whittaker and former football manager Sir Alex Ferguson. Musicians Jorja Smith and Hozier also signed the declaration. Breaking Bad actor Bryan Cranston.
Speaking about the charity’s origins, Lennox added: “Circle started 17 years ago when I sat around a table with a group of influential women and we decided enough was enough. We wanted to help drive positive change for women and girls, and the most powerful way to do this is to ensure we have strong, well-resourced women’s rights-focused organizations in countries around the world providing essential services and tackling the anti-rights narrative at its roots. The need for action today is more urgent than ever and that’s why this International Women’s Day we are at the forefront of violence.” “I take a stance to support women who receive it.”
The funding initiative will directly support the vital work of The Circle, including its 12 grassroots partners around the world. Former Australian prime minister Julia Gillard highlighted the wider context: “We are living through a period of deep global instability, and we know that this uncertainty is leading to increased violence against women. The most vulnerable women and girls are always hit the hardest. In times of danger, it is more important than ever to stand together and take meaningful action.”
Donations to the #MakeAStandfor1in3 appeal can be made by visiting: www.thecircle.ngo/donate.
