Soroptimist Club of Volos Thetis, Greece
In the frame of the “Orange the World” campaign, the Soroptimists of Volos Thetis in Greece initiated 5 consecutive actions in order to sensitize people on violence against women (VAW) and the different forms of support that can be provided:
- 1st action: Public projection of the film “Zenaida” at the University of Thessaly, followed by a discussion with the students and the director of the film about trafficking. The next day, a workshop on filming movies that deal with violence was given in the presence of many university students.
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- 2nd action: “Walk for freedom” – massive participation of citizens in a symbolic walk and distribution of 2000 informative leaflets on VAW but especially on human trafficking.
- 3rd action: Photo exhibition titled “Undisclosed truths” at a central cafe (the photographer is a member of the club). The main objective was to lift the veil on the taboo subject of abuses which still occur in modern society. Many guest speakers attended the event including the Chief of Police in Volos and the spokeswoman of the Police Department who informed the public of a new helpline (15990) on domestic violence. Some women – victims of violence – found the strength to share with the audience their traumatic experiences. Moreover, during that week the President of the Club was invited to a popular local WebTV station where she gave an interview about the goals of Soroptimist International and detailed the projects originated by local Soroptimist clubs about violence against women.
- 4th action: A guitar concert took place in a historical building that was illuminated in orange thanks to An orchestra accompanied by two classical singers who performed for 1,5 hours a variety of musical pieces from famous Greek composers. Representatives of all the local authorities participated in the event.
- 5th action: Soroptimists donated the funds raised from ticket sales of the concert (500 euros) to the “Welfare service for abused women” of the city; a charity organization that helps women and children.
All these events were broadly advertised in all local newspapers, radio stations, and social media!
