Looking back over 2019
Anthea Sully, Chief Executive White RIbbon UK, writes:
This year White Ribbon UK has brought together more people than ever to work towards ending male violence against women. Very sadly, some of the most significant moments of 2019 have been led by the family and friends of women who have lost their lives because of male violence. We take very seriously our duty to build a legacy for every woman whom we have come to know by name, and for all women affected by male violence, by continuing and developing our work to change the male cultures that lead to such abuse. Our male volunteer ambassadors, who are prepared to take a stand, our women champions, and the many accredited and supporting organisations are all critical to us achieving this aim.
World Forum for Democracy
In January White Ribbon UK President, Chris Green, spoke at the World Forum for Democracy, saying:
‘It’s men’s responsibility to stop gender violence, and since men sometimes listen a bit more carefully when the message is spoken by other men, we need to challenge each other to do better.
If we want to see change, we need to mobilise large numbers. We need to reach music venues, sports clubs, universities. Celebrities speaking out is great, but we want police officers, bus drivers, the whole community to embrace our values.’
March4Women
At the March4Women on International Women’s Day, March 8th, David Tennant read a testimony from White Ribbon Ambassador, John Clough. John started the Justice for Jane campaign after his daughter was murdered by her ex-partner.
‘Grace’s Ribbon’
Throughout 2019, the family and friends of Grace Millane have supported our work through awareness raising and fundraising. This has helped us develop our new Youth Advocate Programme. In April LL Loves launched ‘Grace’s Ribbon’ Bracelets with a donation made to White Ribbon UK for each one sold.
White Ribbon Conference
The White Ribbon Conference in June brought together more than 120 change makers, including Ambassadors, Champions and experts, to address the theme, ‘Male Violence Against Women It’s Everyone’s Issue’. Our Keynote Speaker was Luke Hart who shared his own experience of male violence and why men need to change.
Manifesto for Women and Girls
During the General Election we joined a coalition of 32 organisations striving for gender equality and women’s human rights, to support a Manifesto for Women and Girls. Of prime importance was to ensure that the Domestic Abuse Bill which had been in progress through parliament as the General Election was called, was not lost. We were very relieved that this was included in the subsequent Queen’s Speech.
White Ribbon Day
White Ribbon Day on 25th November, and the 16 Days of Action, saw activity across the country, with thousands of people taking part to raise awareness. Here are some of the highlights:
From all of us at White Ribbon UK, thank you for your support in 2019. We look forward to working with you in 2020.
Anthea Sully
Chief Executive, White Ribbon UK