DFWAC’s ‘Orange’ campaign concluded with record engagement figures on December 10, The International Day of Human Rights
- Over 8,000 UAE residents learned about gender-based violence, 50% more compared to last year
- Online engagement doubled compared to last year
- Increased funding from the corporate sector received will commission new campaigns on gender-based violence locally
UAE, Dubai: The Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) concluded a record-setting 16-days of activism, held in conjunction with The United Nations General Assembly UNiTE campaign. The foundation’s initiative gained tremendous attention during its second year with over 8,000 UAE residents learning about the topic gender-based violence, 50 per cent more than last year.
Robust funding received from corporate sponsors and partners like DP World, Twitter and others will be used to further action DFWAC’s innovative projects and commission dedicated programs to eliminate the prevalence of violence against women from a grass roots level.
DFWAC’s 16-day Orange Campaign kicked off with the orange lighting of iconic landmarks for the first time in the Middle East such as The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and The InterContinental Dubai Festival City, late November.
The movement was given a huge boost by various influencers and fraternities in the UAE spotlighting prevention on violence against women. Amongst many events included Zayed University setting an inspiring example by lighting their campus in orange as well. In addition, the event saw an active presence of teachers and students from SNF Development Centre and representatives from the media, and the Singh’s MC UAE wearing their orange turbans and scarfs during a public motorbike rally.
“Since the opening of our shelter in 2007, we were united by a singular focus, to relieve the distress of women and children who have experienced or are experiencing abuse. Over the years our development has grown from small beginnings to become an increasingly active and recognised entity within our society. We demonstrated again that collective dedication and emotional drive towards a violence free environment pays off, resulting in this year’s campaign being counted as the most successful to date.” Said Afra Al Basti Director General of DFWAC
She further added “Thank you UAE and all our partners and volunteers involved, we had a record-setting result, and the response received has been absolutely inspiring. We are very proud to have reached this point in the campaign and hope to empower more women and young girls to break their silence about any type of abuse.”
Maryam Bin Thaneya, Communications Director at DFWAC said “We are thrilled by the response received on-ground and online from women and men supporting us, and we demonstrated that if we unite we can make a difference. Unfortunately we still feel the need as an organisation to help bring more awareness to this important topic, and won’t stop until we end violence.”
“The year 2017 will see even more involvement from our end through our social awareness initiatives, and UAE can also expect and advance in partnerships with government institutions, local community and the private sector.” Said Harmeek Singh, Chairman Plan b Group and Official Partner DFWAC
Any victim of abuse can reach DFWAC 24/7 on their help line 800111, SMS: 5111, Fax: 04 2870088 or email at help@dfwac.ae.
About DFWAC:
The Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) is the first licensed non-profit shelter in the United Arab Emirates for the victims of women and children of domestic violence, child abuse and human trafficking.
It was established in July 2007 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to offer victims immediate protection and support services in accordance with international human rights obligations.
