In every country in the world gender-based violence occurs. Those experiencing this violence are often filled with shame and so hide the reality of their abuse fearing further stigma by family and society and further violence by the perpetrator. Recognizing this tragic reality, the World Council of Churches initiated the Wear Black on Thursdays Campaign.
The campaign is simple and powerful as it calls us to repack out against violence and to ensure that women and men, girls and boys are safe from rape and violence in all places in society. All it asks is that on Thursdays you show your respect for those who are resilient in the face of injustice and violence. Declare that you are part of the global movement resisting attitudes and practices that permit rape and violence by wearing black on Thursdays and letting people know why you are wearing it.
Several general ministries (CUIM, DHM, Disciples Women, and DOM) are joining together to share about the Thursdays in Black campaign, and we would love your help. Please take a selfie wearing black and send it to Bethany Guy (bguy@dom.disciples.org) by Thursday, May 4. These selfies will be shared in a collage that will be posted on aforementioned ministries’ social media accounts on Thursday, May 11. We also invite you to share your selfie on your personal social media accounts on that day and share why you support the Thursdays in Black campaign. Please use the hashtag #ccdocthursdaysinblack when posting.
The following flyer provides additional ideas on how to engage with this campaign. It can be printed and posted where it is easily seen by your congregation.
