I’ve watched more ESPN in the last week than I have in the last year. I’ve caught FIFA World Cup fever, along with millions of other sports fans around the world.
I was interested to learn that there is a “Young Leaders Summit” taking place in Johannesburg at the same time as the World Cup. 200 young people are attending this summit, sponsored by Man Up, a global youth campaign to stop violence against women and girls. Here’s how Man Up describes “the issues” (source):
Violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread violations of human rights. It can include physical, sexual, psychological and economic abuse, and it cuts across boundaries of age, race, culture, wealth and geography. It takes place in the home, on the streets, in schools, the workplace, in farm fields, refugee camps, during conflicts and crises. It has many manifestations — from the most universally prevalent forms of domestic and sexual violence, to harmful practices, abuse during pregnancy, so-called honour killings and other types of femicide.
The group has enlisted the help of artists and athletes. ESPN would to a great public service if it expanded its coverage to include information on organizations like this one, and players who are involved in the campaign against domestic violence.
