Islanders joined hundreds worldwide as they marched through town this weekend to protest violence against women and girls – with further events on the topic due to take place this week.
The Soroptomist International’s annual solidarity march to mark ‘International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls’ took place on Saturday 22 November.
Recognised by the UN, women’s rights activists have observed the day against gender-based violence since 1981.
The date was selected to honour the Mirabel sisters, three political activists from the Dominican Republic, who were murdered in 1960 for their stance on the rights of women and girls.
In 1993, the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women and in 2000, the 25 November was designated as the official commemorative day.
Meanwhile, White Ribbon Day – which also takes place on the 25 November – is annually recognised as the day men show their year-long commitment to ending violence against women and
The theme for this year is ‘We Speak Up’, which encourages men to call out sexist jokes, catcalling, staring, and comments might seem harmless, but are in fact serious and dangerous because they can escalate.
Local domestic abuse charity Freeda will a White Ribbon Day event at the Royal Yacht Hotel on Tuesday 25 November from 17:15 until 19:00.
Guest speakers including clinical psychologist Dr John Cartmell, Ben Hurst from Beyond Equality, and Poppy Murray from Just Be Lads will share powerful insights on masculinity, gender stereotypes, and how men can be upstanders against violence and abuse.
Islanders can find out more information or reserve a free place at the event here.
GALLERY…
