Violence Against Women

In a very real matter, it still overwhelms me, the number on violence against women and young girls. The more and more I begin to dig deep, all the articles, books, counseling information with stacks and stacks of papers to read, all the different countries, nations, cities, communities and homes effected by this horrible act. 

So much runs through my head and I begin to ask myself so many questions, like, Why do we put up with it? Why do we not fight back harder? These are our sisters, mothers, nieces, cousins, friends, co-workers.....just take a look around you and think about these statistics......

-For females 16-44 years of age violence is a major cause of death and disability.

-In 1994, World Bank did a study that reflected that ten selected risk factors facing girls and women of this age group found rape more dangerous than cancer, car accidents, war and malaria.

-Globally, 6 out of every 10 women face domestic and/or sexual violence in their lifetime.

Did you know.....that it actually cost out country money every time intimate partner violence occurs!

-A 2003 report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated costs in the U.S. alone exceeds US$5.8 billion per year.

-US$4.1 billion in direct medical and healthcare costs and US$1.8 billion in productivity loss (absenteeism) 

Progress has been made however, in addressing violence against women and girls.....

2006 U.N. Secretary-General Report- In-Depth Study on all Forms of Violence Against Women

-89 countries have some legislation on Domestic Violence, growing numbers of countries have instituted national plans of action.

-Marital rape is a prosecutable offence in at least 104 states

-90 countries have laws on sexual harassment

Sadly to report however, a large gap still remains

-102 countries have no specific legal provisions against Domestic Violence

-In 53 Nations marital rape is not a prosecutable offence

But then again most people are just going to read these words and over look everything that has just been presented. I am choosing to fight back however, in small and big ways. That's why I'm dedicating myself to an important cause, m.powerment by mark. is dedicated to breaking the cycle of dating abuse and partner violence. All funds raised are rewarded as grants to organizations and programs that are making strides in breaking this cycle.

Since m.powerment by mark. was launched in Fall of 2008, more than $725,000 has been raised to help break the cycle!

You can help to by donating directly to the site or purchasing the bracelet you see below, 100% of net proceeds will be donated to help support the cause of m.powerment by mark.

Won't you help FIGHT BACK......STOP THE VIOLENCE!!!

Get it only at www.mymarkstore.com, or my personal boutique at www.mymarkstore.com/mnewell