The ISKCON Vaishnavi Ministry’s “16 Days of Activism for Safer Families” campaign, running from November 25 to December 10, focuses on cultivating healthy family systems and community cohesion by bringing together ISKCON’s top devotee experts to address a wide range of family-related issues. 

“The campaign’s goal is to spark change, nurture empathy, and create a future where every family feels secure and supported. Strong family values are pivotal for resilient communities,” said Radha Dasi, one of the campaign organizers, ISKCON’s International Vaishnavi Minister, and a Harvard Law School graduate. Much of her work helps people navigate the complexities of family violence, intertwining legal, spiritual, and cultural insights. Her service emphasizes the integral role of protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, for authentic human culture and community prosperity.

The 16 Days of Activism for Safe Families stands as a crucial period dedicated to advocating for the elimination of all forms of violence within families. It’s a call to unity, empathy, and tangible change—a plea for individuals, organizations, and communities to stand together in solidarity against every form of abuse. 

Over the 16 days of the campaign, the focus will be on engaging in conversations, initiating awareness campaigns, and driving initiatives that prioritize safety, support survivors, and challenge the norms perpetuating violence within families. “It’s an opportunity to initiate change, nurture empathy, and lay the foundation for a future where every family feels secure and supported,” Radha Dasi said.

The campaign has garnered broad support from devotees and is co-sponsored by over 20 devotee organizations from around the world. Expert speakers will explore topics like: Why this is an important conversation for ISKCON? Cultivating a Culture of Protection, Promoting a Culture of Support, Advice I’d Give My Son, Advice I’d Give My Daughter, What is Real Ahimsa? Mutual Respect: the Heartbeat of Safer Families, and Building a Circle of Safety. All sessions were pre-recorded, will be available for viewing on the ISKCON Vaishnavi Ministry YouTube channel, and released according to the timeline below:

An amazing lineup of speakers and topics.

Ultimately, a society’s resilience is deeply connected to the strength of its families. Embracing and nurturing strong family values helps build resilience, unity, and long-lasting prosperity. “It creates a future where everyone feels comfort, encouragement, and a sense of belonging—a testament to the enduring impact of family ties in a flourishing society,” Radha Dasi noted.

Addressing family violence demands a unified community effort. Establishing support networks, implementing prevention programs, and fostering a culture of zero tolerance for violence are essential steps toward healing. By recognizing the far-reaching impact of family violence and taking collective action, communities can reclaim their integrity and create safer, more resilient environments for all.

Addressing abuse requires courage and a commitment to open dialogue. These conversations serve as beacons of hope and support for those affected by abuse. By normalizing discussions around abuse, society can erode the stigma and shame associated with it, paving the way for early intervention and prevention. Open conversations about abuse also prompt societal action, advocating for policy reforms and resource allocation for support services. They educate individuals on recognizing signs of abuse, fostering a proactive community that offers assistance and protection to those in need.

“Come join hands with us as we embark on this journey together, knitting a fabric of safety and respect within our families and communities,” invited Radha Dasi, “Let’s unite in making these 16 days a beacon of hope, advocacy, and positive change—a shared dedication to crafting a world where safe, thriving families take root, and violence has no place.”

For the latest information about the campaign click on the following links, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. You may also visit the ISKCON Vaishnavi Ministry website. See a list of event co-sponsors in graphic below.