Press Releases 2007

American Center Hosts Symposium on “Combating Violence Against Women”

November 29, 2007

Mumbai – U.S. Consul General Michael S. Owen inaugurated the “Combating Violence Against Women” symposium, held in association with the Mumbai chapter of the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), at the American Center auditorium here today. The full-day event, which included a self-defense workshop for women, was part of worldwide U.S. efforts to raise awareness about the problem of violence and harassment faced by women at home and at workplace.

“Protection of human rights of women is a crucial part of the U.S. President’s Freedom agenda. U.S. consulates and embassies all over the world devote a stretch of 16 days-- starting on November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women--to programs against gender violence.  By engaging audiences on issues related to violence against women, we hope to highlight the legal, policy and socioeconomic aspects that have a bearing on this malady,” Consul General Owen observed in his inaugural remarks.

Lynne Gadkowski, the Deputy Director of the American Center, who initiated the panel discussion on the occasion, termed the program as healthy interaction with governmental and non-governmental organizations, individuals, activists, and community leaders. “Through this event, we take a small step towards creating a global environment of gender equality,” she said. U.S. Vice Consul Amanda Zafian spoke on the U.S. perspective on violence against women. Women’s activists Nandita Shah, Sushieben Shah, Veena Gawda, along with MAVA (Men against Violence and Abuse) Honorary Secretary Harish Sadani also shared their views on the effective ways to curb gender violence.

Following the panel discussion, Black Belt karate trainer Arvind Khaire conducted a three-hour self-defense workshop for women.  He imparted valuable tips for women to protect themselves in vulnerable situations.