John, support women whose homes are not safe at Christmas
Dear John,
As we approach the festive season—usually a time of joy with friends and family —I’m thinking of those who find this time of year difficult. Especially women in abusive relationships, for whom the holidays could be a time when violence and fear of abuse worsen.
Domestic violence is a global crisis. But, this year, I’m grateful for the work of our partner, Ethiopian Women Lawyers Association (EWLA), who have supported thousands of women to rebuild their lives.
With thanks to gifts from Womankind supporters, we've supported EWLA to help survivors of domestic violence find a safe place to stay and receive free legal advice so that they can leave abusive situations and legally end their marriages.
We are so grateful that you stand with us both.
I’m writing to ask if you can make a special gift to support our end-of-year appeal. John, could you donate just £5 today to our appeal to help women survivors of domestic violence who urgently need your solidarity and support?
In Ethiopia, over 72% of women have experienced domestic violence in the past year. Bilen (not her real name) endured years of abuse, only to be turned away when she sought help from the police.
Then, she found EWLA.
"There was a queue of women like Bilen outside their door, all waiting to speak with one of their volunteer legal advisors. Bilen’s advisor found her a place to stay in a safe house and supported her with her divorce case.
Her husband was eventually arrested and sentenced to 11 years in prison. Because of this, today, Bilen is free to rebuild her life."
- Hiwot Musse, EWLA staff member
Every day another queueforms outside EWLA’s office, and the helpline will be ringing with calls from women seeking their free legal advice.
With your donation EWLA could:
Provide free legal advice to survivors of domestic violence.
Offer safe shelter for women and children fleeing abuse.
Advocate for stronger laws and gender equality across Ethiopia.
Educate women and girls about their rights and help them reclaim their freedom.
I stand with organisations like EWLA to help women reclaim their rights and rebuild their lives. Will you stand with us?
