‘Zonta Says NO’ campaign partners with Po Leung Kuk to spotlight domestic violence

In a united call to end violence against women, seven Zonta Clubs in Hong Kong have partnered with Po Leung Kuk to support its mobile art exhibition, “Violence? Love!!: A Voyage of Discovery,” as part of this year’s global “Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women” campaign.

The initiative comes at a time when the city is still grieving the tragic Tai Po fire. The clubs expressed their condolences to the victims and families affected, noting that the tragedy underscores the broader needs of vulnerable groups across society.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), violence against women and girls remains “the most widespread and pervasive human rights violation” worldwide, affecting an estimated one in three women—a figure that has remained largely unchanged for a decade. 

A 2022 study indicates that nearly 40 percent of Hong Kong women have experienced sexual abuse, with WHO suggesting the real numbers may be even higher.

Zonta’s global advocacy

Zonta International has long been committed to combating gender-based violence. Since the launch of its “Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women” campaign in 2012, Zonta Clubs worldwide participate annually in “16 Days of Activism,” held between November and December, to advocate for women’s safety and rights.

Hong Kong’s Zonta Clubs—Zonta Club of Hong Kong, Zonta Club of Kowloon, Zonta Club of Hong Kong East, Zonta Club of The New Territories, Zonta Club of Victoria Hong Kong, Zonta Club of Hong Kong II, and Zonta Club of The New Territories II—joined the campaign on December 8 by supporting Po Leung Kuk’s mobile exhibition, which educates the public about domestic violence and family crisis support services.

The launch event was attended by Zonta International District 17 Governor Winnie Wong, District 17 Area 2 Director Thelma Tong, the presidents of the seven local Zonta Clubs, and Po Leung Kuk Chairman Amanda Ho, JP.

Leaders highlight mission of awareness and protection

“Today, Zonta International and the seven Zonta Clubs in Hong Kong are delighted to support the Po Leung Kuk’s ‘Violence? Love!!: A Voyage of Discovery’ mobile art exhibition, which aims to raise public awareness about domestic violence,” said Governor Winnie Wong.

“Zonta is committed to advancing the status of women through service and advocacy,” she added, noting that the “16 Days of Activism” aligns closely with the United Nations' call to mobilize all sectors in support of gender equality and women’s rights.

Po Leung Kuk Chairman Amanda Ho, JP, said the exhibition uses storytelling to show that domestic violence often remains hidden behind ordinary life. She emphasized that “the courage and transformation of every survivor deserves to be heard and supported.” Through the exhibition, she added, the organization hopes to help families rebuild healthier relationships while raising awareness of available support services.

Citywide tour to raise awareness

Running from December 8 to 14, the mobile exhibition will tour Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the New Territories, with stops including Causeway Bay, Wan Chai, Mong Kok, Wong Tai Sin, Tai Wai and Tsuen Wan. Admission is free.

The exhibition features several interactive zones, allowing visitors to engage with real-life stories and understand how cycles of violence can be transformed into healing and love. One highlight, “The True Stories of Seven Weapons,” uses personal narratives and activities to encourage reflection on building positive and supportive family environments.