“If *violence has its source in the human heart, then it is fundamental that nonviolence be practised before all else within families… From within families, the joy of love spills out into the world and radiates to the whole of society.[17] An ethics of fraternity and peaceful coexistence between individuals and among peoples cannot be based on the logic of fear, violence and closed-mindedness, but on responsibility, respect and sincere dialogue. ...I plead with equal urgency for an end to domestic violence and to the abuse of women and children.*”
Pope Francis, Message for World Day of Peace 2017, #5
Touched by God’s mercy and compassion and fired by the inspiration of the Gospel and Catherine McAuley, Sisters of Mercy accompany, advocate, educate and collaborate with others in support of persons who are victims of gender-based violence.
Background
The Catholic Church proclaims that all life is sacred. Catholic Social Teaching states that each and every person has value, is to be respected and must be free from slavery, manipulation and exploitation.
The United Nations defines violence against women as "any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual or mental harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life."
Related Issues
View all IssuesHomelessness
Mercy Global Action advocates for housing as a human right, recognizing that an affordable, secure, safe home is fundamental to a person’s wellbeing. Read more about housing justice, find resources, and learn how MGA advocates for policies that uphold the rights of people experiencing homelessness and address the root causes of housing insecurity.
Human Trafficking
Around the Mercy World, Sisters, Associates and partners in ministry accompany, advocate, educate and collaborate with others who strive for justice, in opposition to all forms of human trafficking and exploitation. Read more about human trafficking, find resources, and learn how MGA works towards policies that uphold the dignity and rights of people who have experienced or are at risk of trafficking.
Gender-Based Violence
Mercy ministries work tirelessly for the safety and flourishing of women and girls around the world, with particular care for those who have experienced physical, sexual, emotional, economic or psychological abuse. Read more about gender-based violence, find resources, and learn how MGA advocates for a world where all people can live free from violence and discrimination based on gender.