November 25 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and the numbers in Tuscany are alarming. From 2006 to 2023, 140 femicides have occurred in the region. A staggering 75% of victims were Italian women, while 25% were foreign-born.
Data from a gender-based violence report revealed that in 2023 alone, six women were killed in Tuscany due to gender-related reasons, leaving behind four minor children. Moreover, 4,540 women sought help from women’s shelters in 2023. The number of “Code Red” emergency room visits for gender-based violence reached 1,951, including 400 cases involving minors.
A Wave of Events and Initiatives To combat this crisis, Tuscany is mobilizing with a host of initiatives.
- The Fight to Save La Nara: Legacoop Toscana is urging the preservation of the “La Nara” women’s shelter in Prato, a nationally recognized center that has assisted thousands of women. New regulations threaten the center’s existence, and Legacoop is calling on the regional government to intervene.
- Cinema La Compagnia: The cinema is hosting a series of events including film screenings, book presentations, and live performances to address the issue from various perspectives.
- Spazio Alfieri: A free evening event featuring discussions and a film screening will take place at Spazio Alfieri.
- Teatro delle Donne: The theater continues its performances dedicated to raising awareness about gender-based violence.
- Misericordie: The Misericordie of Tuscany is introducing a new module on affective education to its first aid training program in schools.
- University of Florence: The university is organizing numerous events, from seminars and debates to performances, to address various aspects of gender-based violence.
- Coop Initiative: Coop supermarkets are selling special edition pasta and bags, with a portion of the proceeds donated to women’s shelters.
- Prato Exhibition: An exhibit titled “The Dress of a Shattered Dream” is on display in Prato, symbolizing the violence experienced by women.
- Amazon Alexa Initiative: Amazon Alexa and psychologist Stefania Andreoli have partnered to provide educational content on gender-based violence.
- La Toscana delle Donne: This initiative is hosting a series of events, including a theatrical performance and a flash mob, to raise awareness.
Tuscany is united in its commitment to eradicating gender-based violence and creating a safer, more equitable society for all women.