If You See the Signal, Take Action
A hand signal to discreetly communicate that you need help
the following is from the Women’s Funding Network Signal for Help Campaign
#SignalForHelp: If You See the Signal: Reach Out. Listen. Respond.
REACH OUT: use another form of communication (text, WhatsApp, social media, email)
LISTEN: Ask yes or no questions.
RESPOND: Only call 911 if the survivor asks. Let the survivor tell you what they need, how you can help.
Example of a woman using the signal in video chat:
Use of the signal through a window and a delivery:
The increase in domestic violence during the COVID crisis is undisputed and worldwide. We know that our global network, which includes most US states and 11 countries, is responding to the surge in gender-based violence in ways that are specifically tailored to their communities and in collaboration with trusted partners.
There are some issues, however, that cut across demographic and geographic differences. That’s why the Women’s Funding Network in connection with our member, the Canadian Women’s Foundation, launched the #SignalForHelp. The combination of increased isolation in quarantine, and an increase in the use of video communication, created a critical need for a widely recognized, discrete, way a survivor could reach out for help. #SignalForHelp gives survivors of violence who are trapped at home with their abusers a discreet signal to use to get help.
The #SignalforHelp campaign is about offering a new tool for survivors, but it is also about teaching people who want to help, how to do so in a way that protects the safety and agency of the survivor. #SignalforHelp campaign helps bring gender-based violence out of the shadows. Now more than ever, we have to be vigilant and look out for each other.
#SignalForHelp is just one way in which WFN and our members are promoting justice and equality for women and girls. #SignalForHelp is an example of philanthropy in action and speaks to the importance of women’s and girls’ funds and foundations all over the world.
Additional graphics:
Many are still isolated because of the pandemic. This would be an ideal way to communicate the need for help but this could be used long after the pandemic and is an ideal signal — no trace, no sound, no device needed, and discrete. There are so many instances in which this would be the best option. Share #SignalforHelp because a signal is only good if people know what it means.
