RANGOON – In preparation for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25, women’s rights organizations are hosting a singing contest to raise community awareness about the issue.
The singing contest, titled “Forever White Ribbon,” is a part of the public awareness campaign conducted by the network during 16 days of activism to stop violence against women. The campaign has been held annually in Burma from Nov. 25 to Dec. 10 since 2011.
“We wear white ribbon, which shows the pledge for no violence against women,” said May Sabe Phyu, the director of the Gender Equality Network (GEN). “We want the youth to widely know about the campaign, so we will host a singing contest under the name ‘forever white ribbon,’” she told The Irrawaddy.
The singing competition has no limitations based on age, race, gender, or ability—participants must simply be interested in music. Contestants must submit their applications and music CD no later than Nov. 4, according to announcement on its Facebook page.
Well-known Burmese songwriters and singers will act as judges and will test the contestants throughout the four-step competition.
The winner of the first prize will be awarded 5 millions kyats and can later sign on to complete an awareness-raising album, which will be used for the campaign.
Daw Nang Htwe from the Rangoon-based Ahkara women’s rights group said the campaign “puts forth effort to stop violent acts against women and vulnerable children, as it has been an increasing concern worldwide.”
GEN director May Sabe Phyu stressed that as long as the public is aware that violence against women is a crime, it can become a force for them to speak out about abuses. This development, she added, stemmed from the efforts of women’s rights organizations.
Translated from Burmese by Nyein Nyein.