From Bertha's Marriage to Orange Day: Women's Struggle for Safety Endures
In a historic union, Bertha, daughter of a Sulzbacher count, married Manuel, son of the Emperor of Constantinople, in the early 12th century. Today, women's rights and safety remain crucial global issues, with Orange Day on November 25th raising awareness about violence against women.
Teresa Reichl's cabaret performance 'She can do it' shines a light on women's humor and experiences, highlighting their resilience and strength. Unfortunately, the reality for many women is stark. In Germany, 71.1 percent of domestic violence victims are female, with 133 women killed by their partner or ex-partner last year. The United Nations marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women in 1999 to address this pressing issue.
Looking back through history, Bertha's marriage likely did not afford her sexual experience. Centuries later, Miss Karin von Lilienfeld, a teacher at the Great Prussian Military Orphanage, was bound by a vow of celibacy until 1951. In Sulzbach, Duchess Eleonore Philippine established a convent where girls of different religions were educated, promoting unity and understanding.
From Bertha's historic marriage to today's fight against violence, women's experiences have evolved significantly. Yet, the struggle for safety and self-determination continues. Events like Orange Day serve as reminders of the work still needed to ensure every woman can live free from violence.
