Zonta of Owen Sound Flag Raising at Owen Sound City Hall
Bright and early Monday, Nov 25th, 2024 a sizeable crowd attended Owen Sound City Hall to raise the Zonta Flag in support of Zonta Says No to Violence Against Women. November 25th is recognized as International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. There was a great turn out despite the frigid temperatures. Orange bows were tied to posts and benches, while attendees wore orange scarves to represent a brighter future, where women and girls are free from violence, have access to resources and are represented in decision making positions on an equal basis with men. Welcoming remarks were provided to those in attendance by Owen Sound’s Mayor Boddy as he spoke to the importance of the event and the City’s many years of allyship to Zonta. Attendees included the Chief of Police and the Inspector for the City of Owen Sound, CMHA Program Supervisor of the Men’s Program, Women’s Centre of Grey Bruce Executive Director along with several of the Women’s Centre staff and City of Owen Sound staff. Many Zontians came to honour the flag raising as well, acknowledging that there is a growing urgency to advocate on behalf of women, as rights are being stripped after decades of hard fought gains. A brief summary of the importance of the 16 Days of Advocacy provided by President Barb Fedy, included devastating statistics that clearly prove there is much work to be done. The importance of mobilizing all of society to become activists for the prevention of violence against women was emphasized. It was also requested that community stands in solidarity with women’s rights activists to resist the rollback on women’s rights. To conclude the morning, Zonta club member Louise Snow raised the Zonta Flag, noting it will remain flying through to Monday, December 10th at which time the flag will be lowered on December 10th, commemorating another important day, International Human Rights Day.