Salma Hayek Speaks Out Against Domestic Violence At Avon's Communications Awards

The actress gave an impassioned speech about domestic violence

Salma Hayek gave a passionate speech at the annual Avon Communications Awards: Speaking Out About Violence Against Women last night.

Speaking at the event, Salma talked about the scale of the problem of domestic violence and shared her own experiences of the issue.

Looking chic in a black jacquard cape back dress by Alexander McQueen, she said: 'Not every country in the world has a problem with hunger, but every place in the world has a problem with domestic violence.'

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'The first time I saw domestic violence firsthand was when I was in Mexico, taking a walk with my family, and we came upon a man beating up this woman.

'My father intervened and fought the man and won. I remember thinking, "Oh my God, my father is a hero." Then the woman turned around and started beating up my father. I couldn't comprehend what was happening.

She continued: 'After that I became very intrigued with what makes a woman stay in an abusive relationship. How does her spirit break?'

Avon chief executive officer Sheri McCoy said the issue of domestic violence affects nearly one billion women around the world, and that, since 2004, Avon has contributed $50 million in grants for programs that aim to put an end to violence against women. McCoy said: 'Avon is a powerful force for education and awareness and for change.'

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