Rising for Our Bodies, Our Earth, and Our Future: Standing with One Billion Rising

One Billion Rising is a global movement dedicated to ending violence against women and girls by mobilising communities across continents to rise, resist, and unite. The movement calls on people everywhere to take a stand against gender-based violence and to imagine a world rooted in dignity, safety, and equality. Through collective action, One Billion Rising reminds us that violence is not inevitable and that change is possible when communities come together with purpose.

At the heart of this movement is the understanding that gender-based violence is not an isolated issue. It is deeply connected to social inequality, environmental injustice, and the futures we are building for young people. This holistic approach strongly aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 5: Gender Equality, which seeks to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls and ensure their full participation in society.

We are honoured to have supported the One Billion Rising launch during the 16 Days of Activism and to have continued standing in solidarity through February. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing gender equality, amplifying community voices, and strengthening collective action. In the same spirit, we are grateful for the continued support One Billion Rising has shown toward our own initiatives, reinforcing the power of collaboration under SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Rising for Our Bodies

The theme “Rising for Our Bodies” speaks directly to the urgent need for bodily autonomy and dignity. Gender-based violence strips individuals, especially women and girls, of control over their own bodies and lives. Rising, in this context, is an act of reclaiming the right to live free from fear, coercion, and harm. It is a declaration that no form of violence, whether physical, emotional, or sexual, should ever be normalised or justified.

Rising for Our Earth

Rising for Our Earth recognises the connection between environmental justice and human safety. Environmental degradation and climate-related challenges often affect the most vulnerable communities, increasing poverty, displacement, and instability. These conditions can heighten the risk of violence, particularly for women and girls. By caring for our environment, we are also protecting the social fabric of our communities and safeguarding the futures of those most at risk.

Rising for Our Future and Justice

The movement’s focus on the future places young people at the centre of change. Rising for our future means breaking cycles of violence and inequality that have persisted for generations. Young people today face pressing challenges, including intimate partner violence, harmful social norms, economic vulnerability, and limited access to safe spaces where they can speak freely. Unemployment and inequality further expose many to exploitation and abuse.

One Billion Rising responds to these realities by intentionally amplifying youth voices and leadership. Young people are not only participants but active contributors, organisers, performers, and advocates. Through dialogue, artistic expression, and leadership opportunities, the movement creates safe and empowering spaces where experiences are shared, voices are heard, and confidence is built.

Art as Healing and Resistance

Artistic expression remains a powerful pillar of One Billion Rising. Dance, poetry, music, and performance provide pathways for healing, especially for survivors who may struggle to put their experiences into words. Art breaks silence, raises awareness, and transforms pain into collective strength. Within the movement, creativity is both an act of resistance and a tool for restoration.

Building Dignity, Prevention, and Community Action

One Billion Rising fosters dignity by centring survivors and affirming their worth, while also engaging communities in prevention. Men, boys, leaders, and institutions are called to take responsibility in challenging harmful norms and creating safer environments. Through education, dialogue, and collective action, the movement promotes a culture of respect, accountability, and care.

Partnerships with community organisations, schools, youth groups, and institutions are essential to this work. These collaborations strengthen outreach, deepen trust, and ensure that efforts to end gender-based violence are inclusive and sustainable.

A Message to Young People

To young people who may feel powerless: your voice matters. Your story matters. Change begins when we rise together. Even when systems feel unjust or violence feels overwhelming, you are not alone. There is strength in unity, courage in speaking out, and power in collective action. The future belongs to those who dare to imagine and build a world free from violence.

As we continue to rise with One Billion Rising, we reaffirm our commitment to gender equality, community healing, and justice for all. Together, we rise for our bodies, our earth, and our future.

#OneBillionRising
#YouthRising
#EndGBV
#RiseForOurBodies
#RiseForOurEarth
#RiseForOurFuture
#SDG5
#GenderEquality
#16DaysOfActivism
#Lesotho
#YouthAgainstViolence

Acknowledgements:

‘Me’ Precious Molelle – Maleah Foundation