City of Oswego Honors Zonta Club of Oswego and Supports 16 Days of Activism Campaign 

OSWEGO –  The City of Oswego is proud to honor the Zonta Club of Oswego for its dedication to advancing gender equality and advocating for an end to violence against women and girls. During the Monday, November 24, 2025, Common Council Meeting, Mayor Robert A. Corradino issued a formal proclamation recognizing the organization’s work and marking November 25–December 10, 2025, as “Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women” Days in the City of Oswego.

As part of the community’s support, City Hall will be hosting the symbolic “Orange Lady” throughout the 16 Days of Activism. The statue, an emblem of the movement to end gender-based violence, can be viewed by the public on the first floor of City Hall. Residents are encouraged to visit, learn, and reflect on the importance of collective action to protect women and girls. 

Violence against women and girls remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations across the globe. Systemic abuse—whether physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, psychological, or economic—continues to devastate lives, families, and communities. These crimes cut across national, social, and cultural boundaries, affecting millions in peacetime and conflict alike. 

According to the World Health Organization, one in three women worldwide has been subjected to physical and/or sexual violence. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime reports that 79% of all human trafficking cases involve sexual exploitation, exposing the urgent need for stronger protections, education, and action. 

Mayor Corradino commended the Zonta Club of Oswego, noting its long-standing commitment to ending these injustices. “For over a century, Zonta International and its local chapters have worked tirelessly to create a world where women and girls are safe, respected, and empowered,” Corradino said. “The Oswego chapter continues that mission here at home, leading with compassion, advocacy, and education.” 

The proclamation highlights Zonta International’s worldwide impact—more than 26,000 members in 64 countries—who work collaboratively to influence laws, shift cultural attitudes, and support programs that combat violence and promote gender equality. The Zonta Club of Oswego serves as a vital local partner in that effort, engaging the community in awareness campaigns, events, and service initiatives. 

During the 16 Days of Activism, the Oswego chapter joins the global Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign, urging residents to stand united against gender-based harm. The City of Oswego echoes these calls to action. 

“I encourage all residents to prevent gender-based violence by educating our community on its harm,” Mayor Corradino stated. “Advocate for survivors, uplift their voices, and act in service on their behalf. Change begins with awareness, and it continues with us.” 

For more information on the Zonta Club of Oswego, upcoming initiatives, or how to support the campaign, community members are encouraged to connect with the organization or visit City Hall to view the Orange Lady display. 

Print this entry