Hanaa Abdullah tie a ribbon at the University Library.
JU supports A week free from violence
During the campaign week against violence in close relationships, Orange Week, which runs from 17 to 25 November, Jönköping University (JU) will be lit up in orange. In the University Library and at the School of Health and Welfare, anyone who wants to show their solidarity can tie a symbolic orange ribbon to a tree in the respective entrance. JU's research blog will publish posts on the theme throughout the week.
Tie a symbolic orange ribbon
At JU, eight orange flags will fly on campus during the campaign week. In the entrances to the University Library and the School of Health Sciences, there are trees where you can tie an orange ribbon to show your support for safety, respect and humanity.
“This is a great initiative; it's an important issue that can break taboos. Talking about violence, and that it's not okay, can encourage more people to talk about it and open up,” says Hanaa Abdullah, a student in the Media and Communication Studies programme at the School of Education and Communication at JU.
JU's research blog Vertikals External link, opens in new window. will also feature posts on the theme from researchers in the field throughout the week.
Lena Östlund at the School of Health and Welfare, who is involved in raising awareness of the week at JU and is researching the subject.
Violence does not retire
The County Administrative Board (Swe. Länsstyrelsen) is coordinating the campaign in Jönköping County and has chosen to focus on elderly people who are victims of violence this year which is something that JU is conducting research on.
"Without research, we are fumbling in the dark. With knowledge, we can prevent, detect, and act. Through research, we can influence legislation, education and support measures – and ultimately save lives," says Lena Östlund, who is researching the subject.
Violence occurs in all age groups, but older people may find it difficult to identify and talk about it. Violence against older people can take the form of neglect, where basic needs such as food, medicine, hygiene, or social contact are not met. It can also take the form of psychological or financial abuse, often in relationships where the older person is dependent on their loved ones.
By drawing attention to Orange Week, JU wants to show that violence in close relationships is never acceptable. Small actions, such as listening, supporting and showing respect, can make a big difference.
