At Unicauca, we commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women by critically reflecting on the steps we are taking to become a safe place for all. Transforming 196 years of tradition is a long and arduous journey that we have already begun with concrete actions.

During the month when the University of Cauca celebrates 196 years of history, tradition, and legacy, thousands of stories emerge that recognize and celebrate the great achievements the institution has reached. These accomplishments could be countless within decades of glory. However, as we also commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women or gender-based violence (GBV) this month, it is important to engage in self-reflective exercises to recognize the shortcomings we've had. We acknowledge that we are not yet a 100% safe place for women and the LGBTQ+ or diverse community.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to highlight that we are currently sowing seeds that we know will later allow us to reap great benefits reflected in a university culture free from any kind of violence. As a Public Institution of Higher Education, we recognize our responsibility to society, a society in constant change. Therefore, it is our duty to respond to these transformations.

Among the seeds being sown that contribute to the transformation of our beloved University, there is the emergence of different feminist and transfeminist collectives within our classrooms. Additionally, organizations and groups led by graduates are working for inclusion, the eradication of violence, and the promotion of sexual and reproductive rights in the region. Furthermore, various Research Groups focusing on gender have been established, along with the Gender and Sexual Diversities Program of the Vice Presidency of Culture and Welfare, the Institutional Policy for Inclusive Higher Education, and, more recently, the Protocol for the Prevention and Attention to Gender-Based Violence and Sexual Violence.

Therefore, as a regional center of thought, our role, in addition to promoting these initiatives, is aimed at supporting and driving each of these mechanisms created, starting with a real change in consciousness by all who are part of this institution. From the invaluable value of these nearly 200 years of operation and the narrative of numerous stories, we gather momentum to transform ourselves.

Amidst all these changes as an institution that we face every day, it is important to highlight that within the current Institutional Development Plan, the third strategic axis refers to a university that is supportive and committed to its environment. This university must guarantee the right to life, peace, reconciliation, and the inclusion of differences, as well as foster support networks for its entire university community. In that line of thought, we face a challenging mission to embody and materialize this university principle of Solidarity. Beyond collaboration and mutual support, this ethical principle implies rethinking ourselves and placing ourselves in the shoes of others, historically subjected to violence, invisibility, minimization, questioning, and still, in many spaces, being the target of unacceptable actions.

From the University of Cauca, we emphatically reiterate our commitment to continue working towards making our Alma Mater a 100% safe place. Although we acknowledge that we're not there yet, we are highly committed and taking steps to achieve it. We are sowing, inspired by our community; a community that constitutes our most valuable heritage, made up of students, professors, administrative staff, graduates, and all Unicauca individuals who from various spaces are contributing to eliminating violence. You are the driving force that helps us take steps and undertake the necessary actions internally to transform!

May this #25N of 2023 become a date that urges society to understand the value of life, thinking differently, and diversity as a source of richness.