Violence Against Women

Violence against women refers to any act of aggression based on gender that causes physical, sexual, or psychological harm or suffering to women. This includes threats, coercion, or arbitrary deprivation of freedom, whether in public or private life. It is an extreme manifestation of gender inequality and a violation of human rights, affecting millions of women worldwide.

Violence against women can take various forms:

Physical violence: Hitting, pushing, burning, among others.

Sexual violence: Harassment, rape, sexual abuse, exploitation.

Psychological violence: Insults, humiliation, control, manipulation.

Economic violence: Deprivation of financial resources, financial control.

Every November 25th marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing global action on this pressing issue. The objectives of this day include:

Highlighting violence: Many forms of violence, particularly psychological or economic, often go unnoticed or are normalized.

Promoting gender equality: Combating violence is essential for achieving a more equitable society.

Fostering action and public policy: Governments, organizations, and citizens use this day to reinforce measures and programs for protection.

This date was chosen in memory of the Mirabal sisters—Patria, Minerva, and María Teresa—three political activists from the Dominican Republic who were brutally murdered on November 25, 1960, by order of dictator Rafael Trujillo. Known as "Las Mariposas" (The Butterflies), they fervently opposed tyranny, and their assassination became a symbol of resistance against oppression and gender-based violence.

In 1981, the First Latin American and Caribbean Feminist Encounter proposed this date as a day of reflection on violence against women. Later, in 1999, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women through Resolution 54/134.

Challenges and Solutions in Puerto Vallarta

The lack of awareness about violence against women in Puerto Vallarta, as in many other regions, stems from various social, cultural, economic, and educational factors.

Unfortunately, many women who experience violence do not report it out of fear or lack of support, leading to inaccurate statistics and a lack of visibility for the issue. Promoting safe spaces where women can speak out and receive support is vital for empowerment. Educating younger generations about respect, equality, and nonviolence is also essential for building a better society.

While Mexico’s national government has positioned itself as one of the most feminist globally, promoting an agenda to empower and defend women—past, present, and future—state and municipal governments in Jalisco have been criticized for their limited efforts in defending women’s rights.

This highlights the urgent need for community-led campaigns to combat violence against women. These initiatives should focus on raising awareness, encouraging reporting, and creating networks of support, such as opening homes to protect women in need.

A Call to Action

For the women we live and work with daily—girls, workers, businesswomen, and wise elders—we must take collective action to address violence against women. By bringing these issues to light, promoting equality, and building protective networks, we can strive toward a more just and safe world for all women.

Raising awareness about violence against women in Puerto Vallarta requires a concerted effort from civil society, government, and educational institutions to deeply transform the beliefs and practices that perpetuate this issue.