August 7, 2006
Law Maria da Penha Enacted
Maria da Penha is a Brazilian bio-pharmacist & Women's rights advocate against domestic violence. Maria's abuse by her husband left her a paraplegic. But, he didn't break her. On August 7, 2006, Maria made HERstory; the "Law Maria da Penha" was sanctioned by the Brazilian government. The law targets gender based violence in a number of ways including increasing the punishment for domestic abuse offenders & establishing domestic violence courts. Take that!