White Ribbon Day is an internationally recognised day where men show their yearlong commitment to ending violence against women and girls, by making the pledge to never use, excuse, or remain silent about men’s violence against women.
On Friday, 24 November, the Council―along with our partners such as South Wales Police and the Youth Engagement Service (YEPS)―held a candlelit vigil in remembrance of the victims of gender-based violence. The event also helped raise awareness by informing and signposting individuals to various forms of available support. The vigil had great turnout from the public and encouraged reflection and remembrance of those women and girls who have suffered from men’s violence.
Cllr. Bob Harris, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, said: “The Council’s Candlelit Vigil was an important and reflective evening.
“The Deputy Leader of RCT Council and myself were fortunate to be joined by Alex Davies-Jones MP and Reverend Charlotte Rushton from St. Catherines Church, alongside members of YEPS who performed a short play demonstrating how to recognise the signs of domestic abuse.
“The Council have also made the pledge to end violence against women across the County Borough by prioritising initiatives and policies to help keep women safe and challenging behaviours that perpetuate this violence.
“It is remarkable to see so many people join in solidarity to say NO to violence against women. Together, we can change the narrative for the better of all.”
This Sunday, 10 December, is International Human Rights Day and the last day of our #16DaysofActivism campaign. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the introduction of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This declaration outlines the rights every person is entitled to as a human being, regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, national origin, or birth status. A woman’s right to live a life free of abuse and violence is a fundamental human right.
Remember, you can still make your promise to end men’s violence against women by visiting: https://www.whiteribbon.org.uk/promise
White Ribbon UK are supported by several organisations and charities who provide advice and assistance to victims of domestic abuse and gender-based violence.
Live Fear Free
The Live Fear Free Helpline is a service offered by the Welsh Government to provide 24/7 assistance to individuals facing domestic abuse. They provide advice in a range of areas including violence against women, domestic abuse, and sexual violence.
The Live Fear Free Helpline can be contacted for free on 0808 90 10 800, or by email: info@livefearfreehelpline.wales
They also have a live chat which is accessible through their website.
https://www.gov.wales/live-fear-free
Bawso
Bawso is a Cardiff-based charity established in 1995 by black and minoritized women and they support Black, Asian, and Ethnic Minority (BAME) individuals facing abuse and violence. They currently run 25 projects throughout Wales and support over 6,000 individuals annually. Their vision is for all people in Wales to live free from abuse, violence, and exploitation.
BAME individuals can be victims of various forms of abuse including female genital mutilation, forced marriage, human trafficking, and prostitution.
They are free to call 24/7 on 0800 731 8147, or you can contact them by email: info@bawso.org.uk
Galop
Galop is a UK-based charity that provides support to LGBTQ+ victims and survivors of gender-based violence.
They run four national helplines that cover domestic abuse, hate crimes, sexual abuse, and conversion therapy. They also provide long-term support through their advocacy service.
Their helplines are free to use, and they can be contacted on 0800 999 5428 or by email: help@galop.org.uk
—————————————–
The Council believes in equal rights for all, so men and women can live their lives unrestricted by harmful behaviours.
Thank you for joining us for this year’s 16 Days of Activism campaign for White Ribbon Day 2023. Ending violence against women and girls means we can all lead better lives, and it starts when we commit to #ChangeTheStory.
