In 1994, Soroptimist International of the Americas (SIA) made the prevention of domestic violence an organizational focus. Each year, on November 25 (the International Day to Eliminate Violence Against Women), members participate annual in the Soroptimist Workplace Campaign to End Domestic Violence.
The campaign targets domestic abuse as a workplace concern. Domestic violence is a workplace issue because it affects both women and business, as most women work and they do not leave abuse behind while at the workplace. Abusers often harass their partners at work. In worse case scenarios, abusers come to the workplace and threaten their partners and their co-workers.
As business and professional women, Soroptimists are in a position to educate people in the workplace that women have the right to live free from violence. This year, our club members will distribute flyers at their workplace provided by the Neighbours, Friends and Family program of Ontario. There were safety cards and three brochures: How You can Identify and Help Women at Risk of Abuse; Safety Planning for Women Who are Abused; How to Talk to Men Who are Abusive.