Tibetan Leadership Stands Against Gender-Based Violence on International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women. Photo/Ngawang Tsepak/tibet.net

Dharamshala: The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) observed the ‘International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women’ today with a half-day event at the Sikyong Auditorium in Gangchen Kyishong. Organised by the Women’s Empowerment Desk (WED) of the Department of Finance, the program aimed to raise awareness of gender-based violence and abuse within the Tibetan community.

The event marked the continuation of WED’s 16-day activism campaign against gender-based violence and was attended by CTA’s staff and officials. Through this observance, the CTA reaffirmed its commitment to addressing and eliminating violence against women while promoting gender equality and empowerment within the Tibetan community.

Kalon Gyari Dolma of the Department of Security, the event’s Chief Guest, delivered address on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. She emphasised the importance of 25 November, highlighting its historical significance tied to the bravery of the Mirabal Sisters, also known as “The Butterflies.”

She explained that the date was chosen to honour the Mirabal Sisters, who were assassinated on 25 November, 1960, for opposing the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo in the Dominican Republic. She noted that this day serves as a global call to action against gender-based violence and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for women’s rights.

Kalon Gyari Dolma added that the sacrifices of the Mirabal Sisters symbolise courage and truth, inspiring people worldwide. She also spoke about the United Nations General Assembly’s decision to designate 25 November as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, aimed at raising awareness about violence faced by women, including issues like domestic violence and rape.

She addressed the Tibetan community specifically, stating that many believe gender-based violence does not exist within Tibetan society or that such issues are only prevalent in Western countries. She referred to this misconception as a form of denial syndrome.

Kalon Gyari Dolma urged Tibetans to challenge this mindset, emphasising that as a community living in exile and striving for freedom, both men and women share equal responsibility in achieving a better future. She stressed that equality, truth, and fairness must be core principles for Tibetan society going forward.

Acknowledging progress in Tibetan communities, she noted, “While we cannot claim that our society is completely free of problems, Tibetans have undergone significant development since coming into exile. I have seen positive changes and improvements in our communities. Yet, challenges remain, and we must address them proactively.”

She stressed the importance of community support, stating, “Even if such instances of abuse or violence have not directly affected you or those around you, it is our duty to help others. Women must offer support to one another and encourage those undergoing abuse or stress to stand up and challenge the perpetrators.”

In her concluding remarks, Kalon Gyari Dolma noted that while the Tibetan community may fare better than others in terms of gender equality, due to the culture of respect embedded in Tibetan values, vigilance is still necessary. She called on everyone to continue working toward greater equality and safety for all members of society.

At the end of the event, participants from various departments of the Central Tibetan Administration took part in engaging activities, including a trivia quiz, an outfit challenge, and a poster drawing competition, all aimed at promoting awareness about the importance of eliminating violence against women.

Dickey Choedon delivered the opening introduction, followed by Tenzin Dolkar, the Section Head of WED, who briefed the gathering on the ongoing initiatives and key findings. Both speakers highlighted that gender-based violence exists in all societies, including the Tibetan community, as evidenced by recent surveys conducted across various sectors.

The event provided a platform to address these pressing issues and promote proactive efforts toward creating a safer and more equitable environment for everyone.

The campaign was jointly funded by USAID and NDI, reflecting a global partnership for social change.

The United Nations General Assembly designated November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The day was created to raise awareness about the violence that women face, including rape and domestic violence.