One Billion Rising in Concord…and Around the World.

 
By Cynthia Ellis
 
Valentine’s Day marked the anniversary of One Billion Rising – a global call for one billion women and men everywhere-- to end the violence against women and girls around the world and rise up for justice.
 
The “billion” refers to the United Nation’s statistic that one in three women will suffer from rape and other physical abuse in their lifetime.
 
In Concord last Friday – a wintry February 14 – a group of committed and enthusiastic activists came together in support of One Billion Rising and gathered for “The Heart of Concord Beats for Justice” in front of Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House.
 
Four local leaders presented at the event.
 
C.C. King, certified InterPlay Leader, delivered the welcome, explaining that One Billion Rising is a global movement to end violence against women and girls, founded by playwright/activist Eve Ensler.
 
“We are not separate from violence,” says King. “We are all part of the problem and part of the solution.  Women – and men – around the world should hear from us and know that they are not alone.”
 
“Twinkle” Marie Manning, local author and founder of Empowering Women, spoke to the issue of violence. “Today, The Heart of Concord speaks to justice. Violence against women crosses the borders of race, culture, age and even economic status.  Regardless of the language spoken, or religious or philosophical belief system, physical and sexual violence against women and girls is universal.  This is both a local problem and a global epidemic.”
 
C.C. King read excerpts from Concord author Polly Petersen’s work that tells the plight of American women in the 1800s – especially black women – how they were viewed as second class citizens and how Massachusetts women valiantly stepped forward to protect women and children of all races.
 
Jan Turnquist, executive director of Orchard House, reflected on the inclusive, progressive thinking and actions of the Alcott Family.  The Alcotts assisted and housed women and children who were victims of abuse at a time when it was legal for men to abuse their wives and illegal to assist these women.
 
Tony Fisher, ministerial intern at First Parish, delivered warm words in prayer.  He invited the men and women gathered to rise up every day of the year – and stand up against hierarchy, patriarchy, sexism and oppression of all kind.
 
“Today,” concluded CC King, “We have joined in solidarity to listen, dance, and rally for the safety of women everywhere.  Together we raise our voices to end violence and extend radical love to all people
and to the earth.”
 
Learn more by visiting www.onebillionrising.org