Can I walk freely at night? Can I stop carrying pepper spray? Can I stop fearing an attack? Can I stop living in constant anxiety about my safety? These are the questions we need to answer with action and resolve. These are the questions raised by every girl and woman today.
HopeWorks proudly announces its annual BRAVE (Bold Rally for Aspiration, Vigor & Equality), a march dedicated to advancing safety and equality for women. This event took place on the night of August 23rd, beginning at the Queen’s Statue on Kasturba Road and concluding at Cauvery Emporium. The march commenced at 10 PM and lasted for one hour.
This initiative addresses the harsh reality faced by women in our country. It confronts the pervasive fear of the night and the anxiety of not being able to walk freely. A recent incident involving a young doctor, who was attacked while fulfilling her duties, has brought to light the constant danger that women encounter simply by stepping outside. Her story, though deeply personal, resonates with countless others, revealing the harsh truth that many women live in fear even during their daily routines and ordinary moments, where safety should be a given, not a luxury.
Leading the BRAVE walk, Jacintha Jayachandran, Founder of HopeWorks, stated, “At HopeWorks, we are deeply committed to creating a world where women are not only safe but also empowered. BRAVE is more than just a march; it is a stand against the fear that shadows our streets and a call to action for meaningful change. We are rallying for a future where every woman and girl has the right to move freely, work without fear, and live with dignity.”
Speaking on the occasion, Shreya Krishnan, Managing Director of AnitaB.org, said, “It’s time we stake our claim to our spirit, our safety, and our freedom! It’s about making sure we exercise our presence and voice to make the impact we want to see and the change it brings!”
Adding to this, Dr. Lakshmiprada, Senior Product Manager and motivational speaker, said, “Behind every positive move forward, there is a mindset that has to be tuned to be strong, bold, focused, confident, resilient, and have a never-give-up attitude. This is what differentiates women from men—the ‘Woh’ unbeatable factor.”
Our march symbolizes a collective outcry of “Enough!” We aim to create a world where safety and equality are not mere aspirations but fundamental rights for every woman. BRAVE is also a tribute to the courageous girls of HopeWorks who have defied societal constraints and are boldly stepping into their rightful places in society. We are happy to share that our male allies will be joining us on the walk on the 23rd. Men as allies play a crucial role in advocating for gender equality and creating safer environments for women. Their support not only amplifies the call for change but also helps dismantle the barriers that perpetuate inequality and fear.
We urge everyone to join us in this vital movement. By participating in BRAVE, you will demonstrate solidarity with those who have been silenced and reaffirm your commitment to a world where safety and equality are guaranteed for all.
We walk together so that we can work together as equals and build the nation.
