Austin is among numerous cities across the world recognizing the next two weeks as a time to end violence against women.

Local leaders of Zonta Club gathered with community officials Monday afternoon to recognize 16 Days for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Mayor Tom Stiehm gave a proclamation while Norm Hecimovich, veterans memorial committee chair, raised a Zonta flag with the American flag.

An additional flag will be raised everyday until the last day of the event at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 10, also known as “Take Back the Night.” The event will feature guest speakers who will talk about violence in Mower County.