At the Yellowstone County Commissioner Meeting on November 26, 2024, a powerful proclamation was made recognizing the 16 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women, a campaign running from November 25 to December 10. This initiative highlights the county's commitment to combat gender-based violence, a pervasive issue that affects women and girls worldwide.

During the meeting, speakers emphasized the profound impact of violence against women, which robs individuals of safety, dignity, and fundamental human rights. The proclamation serves as a catalyst for change, encouraging open dialogue, challenging harmful stereotypes, and promoting gender equality. It aims to empower survivors to speak out and seek support while mobilizing communities to create safer environments.

Renee Coppock from the Zonta Club of Billings reinforced the urgency of the issue, citing alarming statistics from the United Nations and the Montana Department of Justice. She noted that nearly 60% of reported crimes in Yellowstone County are related to domestic violence, with a significant number of fatalities resulting from intimate partner violence. Coppock stressed that violence against women is not just a women's issue but a societal one that requires the involvement of men and boys in prevention efforts.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for community members to challenge harmful stereotypes, intervene in potentially violent situations, and promote gender equity. The recognition of the 16 Days of Activism is seen as a crucial step in addressing and reversing the troubling trends of domestic violence in the region.