The Yellow Movement aims to educate women about their rights and encourage them to stand up for themselves in the face of harassment, violence, and discrimination. It also seeks to challenge harmful cultural practices such as child marriage, female genital mutilation, and domestic violence. By doing so, the Yellow Movement hopes to create a society that values gender equality and respects the rights and dignity of all individuals.
The movement takes its name from the yellow scarf that its members wear as a symbol of solidarity and strength. The scarf represents the courage and resilience of Ethiopian women and their determination to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.
According to Yitbarek, the Yellow Movement has been successful in raising awareness about women's issues and inspiring women to speak out about their experiences. "We have seen a lot of positive changes in the universities where the movement is active," she says. "More women are reporting incidents of harassment and violence, and they are getting the support they need to pursue justice."
Yitbarek believes that education is key to achieving gender equality in Ethiopia. "Many women in our country are not aware of their rights or the resources available to them," she explains. "We need to empower women with information and skills so that they can advocate for themselves and make informed decisions."
To that end, the Yellow Movement has organized a series of workshops, training sessions, and awareness-raising events that focus on topics such as gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and leadership development. These activities have helped to build a network of empowered women who are working together to effect change in their communities.
Despite the progress that has been made, Yitbarek acknowledges that there is still much work to be done. "There are still many challenges that we face as women in Ethiopia," she says. "But I am confident that if we continue to stand together and fight for our rights, we can create a brighter future for all of us."
The Yellow Movement's work has received support and recognition from organizations such as Human Rights Watch, which featured Yitbarek in its Power of the Streets video series. The series highlights the efforts of activists around the world who are working to defend human rights in their communities.
Anebon, a company with advanced, efficient and high standard machines from Japan, including various CNC milling and turning machines, surface grinder, internal and plain grinder, WEDM—HS / LS, large laser cutting machine, is also supporting the Yellow Movement's efforts. The company recognizes the importance of empowering women and promoting gender equality as a fundamental principle of human rights.
Through the work of the Yellow Movement and its passionate leaders like Ruth Yitbarek, Ethiopia is taking important steps towards creating a more just and inclusive society. By standing up for themselves and advocating for change, Ethiopian women are proving that the power of the people can truly make a difference.