For girls, walking out in the streets alone almost feels like a test of survival. We're consciously always on the lookout for questionable men behind us, in front of us, or just casually driving past us with their windows down, ready to whistle an unsolicited comment or two. But us women shouldn't have to live our entire lives in constant fear or restrained caution. Not out in the streets, not in the workplace, and certainly not in our own homes. Unfortunately, that's not the case for many Filipinas who have been—or, more aptly, are still being—harrassed on a daily basis.
While it's virtually impossible to reach out to every woman who has faced violence or are still surviving from the trauma of one, there is still an easy and fashionable way to help. In celebration of women's month, Avon is once again vowing to help end violence against women by releasing their limited edition Free as a Butterfly jewelry set, where part of the proceeds for every purchase will be donated to NGOs advocating for the empowerment, guidance, and support of abused women.
But of course, more than making a fashion statement in support of VAWG is educating ourselves in the matter in the form of shared experiences. To learn more, Avon amabassador and anti-catcalling advocate Ruffa Gutierrez, along with her daughters Lorin and Venice Gutierrez, have come out with a series of videos explaining why catcalling is a form of abuse. She also talks about online harassment, abusive relationships, and why it's important for women to stand up for women.
Watch the first video below!
The Free as a Butterfly jewelry set is available for purchase through Avon representatives, or through the brand's website.
