local news

Candlelight Vigil On White Ribbon Day

Written by Gavin on 21st November 2022

Cwm Taf White Ribbon Group is holding a candlelight vigil to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, also known as International White Ribbon Day, on Friday, November 25.

White Ribbon Day is marked around the world each year and is the largest global initiative to end male violence against women by calling on men to take action to make a difference.

This year, White Ribbon Day falls on the same week as the opening of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. There has never been a better time for us all to focus on the good that can come from unifying and supporting one common cause.

#TheGoal

This does just that by bringing men and boys together to think about how they can make a positive difference to achieve equality and safety for women and girls.

In keeping with the football theme this year, White Ribbon Day 2022 highlights 11 traits that men and boys can adopt, each representing a player in a football team. We must shift expectations that violent and abusive behaviour and attitudes are normal and cannot be changed.

All men and boys can commit to equality and safety for women and girls to live the lives they want to lead without fear of violence. This is always ‘The Goal.’

Thousands of people worldwide stand up, speak out and say NO to violence against women each year. All men can make a difference by thinking of their own behaviour and being prepared to call out sexist and harassing behaviour when they see it.

This year marks eight years since Rhondda Cynon Taf Council became the first Local Authority in Wales to be recognised by the White Ribbon campaign for its work to end violence against women.

Support continues to this day thanks to an on-going commitment between the Council and its partners, including South Wales Police, RCT Domestic Abuse Service and local housing providers, all working together to provide assistance and support to victims of domestic violence.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is proud to be a White Ribbon Accredited organisation.

Councillor Bob Harris, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities, said:

“This Council continues to offer support to those affected by domestic violence, keeping them safe, as well as working with perpetrators to address their unacceptable behaviour.

“Together, we can all make a difference, and we must make a stand and challenge the wholly unacceptable acts of domestic violence.

“The International White Ribbon Day campaign raises public awareness and encourages men worldwide to recognise the necessity to stand up and take responsibility in working towards a future without violence against women.

“We must never commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women. Please wear your White Ribbon with pride to show your support.

“Domestic violence can affect anyone in our County Borough – at any time of their life, regardless of age, race, religion or gender. We all must stop and think about what goes on behind closed doors.”

Anthea Sully, Chief Executive of White Ribbon UK, said:

“This year, White Ribbon Day is focusing on the attitudes and behaviours men and boys can adopt to move away from associations to violent and abusive behaviour.

“Men and boys are now expecting better from their colleagues, friends, and family to ensure women and girls are safe. We invite you to wear a White Ribbon and make the White Ribbon Promise.”

Commenting before the event, Alex Davies-Jones MP said:

“It’s a privilege to speak at tonight’s vigil as we mark the start of16 days of action on awareness of the scourge of male violence against women. Every year, people across the globe gather together on the same day, 25th November, to stand up and speak out against violence against women. The vigil will be an opportunity for us to remember the women and girls who have lost their lives at the hands of male violence, and mourn their loss.

“The vigil also serves as an important opportunity for men to reflect on their own behaviour and emphasise the importance of getting men to call out sexist or problematic behaviour in their peers when they see it. It’s so important that men lead by example as allies – every man can play his part in ending male violence against women.

“This year, the White Ribbon Campaign are highlighting the 11 traits men can strive for to create a safer world for women. Their website has a fantastic set of free resources available to anyone who wants to learn and do more, and I encourage everyone totake a look.”

Also commenting, CWMTAF White Ribbon Group, said:

“International White Ribbon Campaign is launched 25th November each year, followed by 16 days of action to promote the end of male violence against women.  The message is taken out in the street and shops, schools and universities and sports clubs by individuals and organisations including the emergency services. 

Wear a White Ribbon and make the White Ribbon Promise never to commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women. Make your first steps today and commit to achieving ‘TheGoal.’

Pledge the White Ribbon Promise

Please join us as we support this year’s International White Ribbon Day on Friday, November 25. The White Ribbon Day candlelight vigil takes place in Pontypridd town centre at 5:30pm on Friday, November 25. All are welcome to attend.