Zonta International statement on International Day for the Right to the Truth

Each year on 24 March, the International Day for the Right to the Truth is observed. The observance pays tribute to the memory of Archbishop Óscar Arnulfo Romero, who was murdered on 24 March 1980 for speaking out against injustice and inequality in El Salvador.

In a recent speech, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that “the International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and the Dignity of Victims reminds us that truth is a powerful light.”

“By shining a light on the inequities and human rights violations against women and girls such as child marriage and gender-based violence, Zonta International is working to achieve a peaceful and just world,” said Zonta International President Sharon Langenbeck.

Romero was famous for saying that “the ones who have a voice must speak for those who are voiceless.” This sentiment captures why Zonta International continues to pursue gender equality and works to end violence against women and girls.

Zonta’s international service projects provide life-changing opportunities for women and girls. Through our Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign and our international advocacy work, we continue to work toward the goal of eliminating all forms of gender-based violence.

On this day, we recommit to illuminating the gross violations women and girls face and to helping them achieve better futures.

24 MARCH 2022