Speak Up Against Gender-Based Violence – White Ribbon Day, 25 November

25 November marks White Ribbon Day, a globally recognised symbol calling for an end to men’s violence against women and girls. It also marks the start of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a United Nations campaign dedicated to ending violence against any gender worldwide.

This year, White Ribbon UK is urging us all to “Speak Up” – challenging harmful attitudes and behaviours, and making it clear that silence is not an option. Speaking up can mean calling out inappropriate jokes, supporting someone who confides in you, or advocating for safer communities. Every voice matters.

The statistics remain stark: an estimated 1.6 million women experience gender-based violence every year in the UK, though this is likely just the tip of the iceberg as many cases go unreported.

The Church of England has made significant strides in recent years to address domestic abuse within its communities. In 2022, its campaign “It’s not just black eyes and bruises” highlighted the hidden nature of abuse and encouraged churches to improve their response. Sixteen daily videos were produced to support this initiative, and they remain available to view here. We encourage you to follow these videos over the coming days, and after listening to the final poem, “If I Told You”, take time to prayerfully consider how you might respond if someone told you they were experiencing domestic abuse.

What can you do?

• Speak Up: Challenge harmful language and attitudes.

• Learn: Watch the Church of England’s videos HERE and explore White Ribbon’s resources HERE.

• Support: Be ready to listen and signpost help if someone reaches out. Our Safeguarding page HERE will help you find the right people to talk/refer to.

• Pray: For victims, survivors and for a culture that values safety and respect.

Together, we can help create communities where women and girls live free from fear and violence.