Rotherham Domestic violence charity prepares for their largest turnout to the national ‘16 days of activism’ movement

Image: Zlakha Ahmed

Charity Apna Haq are preparing for their greatest contributions yet to the ‘16 Days of Action’ movement, on 25 November, which aims to raise awareness against gender based violence. 

Chief Executive, Zlakha Ahmed, expressed her excitement for the upcoming events: “We are very excited to have received the draft of the programme for the 25th of November.

“We have worked hard to raise the profile of Apna Haq as we are independently funded, instead of funded through the council.”

‘Apna Haq’, which translates to ‘Our Right’ in Urdu, supports black and minority ethnic (BME) women and girls in Rotherham who are victims of any form of violence, including domestic violence. 

Rotherham notoriously struggles with domestic-based and gender violence. According to the Safer Rotherham Partnership, domestic abuse crimes accounted for 18% of offences reported in Rotherham in 2020-2021 alone. 

Ms Ahmed will also be speaking at the event. 

Ms Ahmed said: “16 days of Action is such an important movement, particularly for the women and girls of Rotherham.”

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence movement began in 1991. It runs from the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (25 November) until Human Rights Day (10 December). 

The preliminary plan for the day includes a Creative Writing Workshop at 12.00- 13.00 inside the Imperial Building and a walk led by Apna Haq at 17.00 – 17.30 outside of the Imperial Building. 

Ms Ahmed said: “We would be immensely grateful for your contribution to this webinar on 16 Days campaigning and will endeavour to support you as needed to overcome any capacity constraints that may prevent you from taking part.”