Today (November 25) marks White Ribbon Day, which aims to eradicate violence towards women and girls.

The campaign calls upon men and boys to be accountable for their own negative behaviours and challenge similar actions within their friendship groups.

This includes addressing the use of misogynistic language, sexist jokes, catcalling, or harassing women on nights out.

Left unchecked, these behaviours can contribute to a climate of fear and potentially escalate into violence.

While perpetrators and victims of violence can be of any gender, statistics highlight a concerning disparity.

The Crime Survey for England and Wales reports that in the year ending March 2023, an estimated 1.4 million women experienced domestic abuse, nearly double the number of men.

Empowering Women

Kirklees Councillor Amanda Pinnock, Cabinet Member for Education and Communities, commented: “We are staunch supporters of the White Ribbon campaign, as it encourages actions we can all take to prevent violence and empower women to live free from fear.

“The unfortunate reality is that women are disproportionately affected by violence. This is why the campaign specifically asks men to reflect on their own behaviours and those of their peers.

“Some men may not realize that seemingly harmless actions, such as using misogynistic language, can contribute to a daily sense of fear and vulnerability for women.

“It’s crucial for men to initiate conversations within their friendship groups and challenge these low-level behaviours before they become normalized.

“By stopping them at the root, we can prevent them from escalating into more harmful attitudes towards women.”

Council Commitments

Kirklees Council says they are committed to working with local partners to support victims who report incidents and enhance the feeling of safety within public spaces.

Their blueprint programmes, backed by various organisations including the police, prioritise safety in town centres.

Measures like street marshals, the Night Safety Bus, and Ask for Angela initiatives contribute to a safer environment for evening visitors.

“We acknowledge that there’s always room for improvement,” Councillor Pinnock continued, “but positive change starts with individual awareness. We encourage everyone to reflect on their own behaviour.”

Are You in a Violent Relationship?

Domestic abuse can occur between intimate partners or family members and encompasses a wide range of behaviours.

These include physical and sexual violence alongside psychological, emotional, financial abuse, threatening behaviour, stalking, and harassment.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, information and support are available through the Pennine Domestic Abuse Partnership at 0800 052 7222.

More About White Ribbon

White Ribbon Day is led by the charity White Ribbon UK. This year’s campaign message is #ItStartsWithMen.

Individuals can sign the White Ribbon UK pledge to end violence against women and girls, and access further information online at www.whiteribbon.org.uk