WRUK response to Sarah Everard case plea

We repeat our call: Men need to take action to end violence against women

As the man responsible for the killing of Sarah Everard has pleaded guilty to her murder White Ribbon UK repeats its call for men to recognise that if they don’t stand up to violence against women it won’t end.

Anthea Sully Chief Executive of White Ribbon UK has released the following statement:

“Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Sarah Everard at this time. Women experience violence and abuse on a daily basis — 86% of younger women say they have been harassed in the street. Every year men murder between 120 and 150 women.  There is a continuum of violence and it can be stopped at its source by men considering their own behaviour and looking to positively influence their friends. Actions such as catcalling cause harm, creating a culture where women are fearful and unable to live the lives they want to lead.

The White Ribbon movement was started by men 30 years ago. The message remains the same. We call on all men to make the White Ribbon Promise to never commit excuse or remain silent about violence against women. Since then many men have taken up the call - but there needs to be many more to create the wholesale societal change that is needed. This work to raise awareness amongst men in critical - yet receives almost no funding and prevention work continues not to be prioritised by policy makers.”