City leaders have made a pledge to end male violence against women, and residents are encouraged to do the same on White Ribbon Day (Friday 25 November).
Marked annually around the world, White Ribbon Day is a global initiative to end male violence against women and calls on men to take action to make a difference.
The day marks an opportunity to raise awareness, speak out and say ‘no’ to violence against women. People can get involved in the White Ribbon campaign by wearing a white ribbon, and signing a Promise to never commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women.
Councillor Fazackarley, Cabinet Member for Safety in the Community said:
“White Ribbon Day aims to prevent violence against women and girls by addressing the root causes, changing long established, and harmful attitudes, systems and behaviours around masculinity.
“I have made the White Ribbon Promise to never commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence, and I encourage the people of Portsmouth to do the same.
“We can all play our part – at home, work or school – to raise awareness and be prepared to call out violence or abusive behaviour when we see it.”
Various leaders and community members across Portsmouth have signed the White Ribbon Promise and wear the White Ribbon to show their commitment to the campaign, including Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, David Williams, Chief Executive of Portsmouth City Council, Commodore Baily, Royal Navy, Stephen Morgan MP, Andrew Cullen, Chief Executive, Danny Cowley, First Team Manager, Lee Brown, Club Captain, and Duke Harrison-Hunter, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Coordinator, at Portsmouth Football Club.
Portsmouth residents can show their support by making the Promise to never commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women. Men are specifically encouraged to make the Promise but anyone aged 14+ can do so.
You can make the Promise at www.whiteribbon.org.uk/promise
If you, or anyone you know, is experiencing domestic abuse and need support, please contact Stop Domestic Abuse on 023 9206 5494 or portsmouthreferral@stopdomesticabuse.uk In an emergency always call 999. To report an incident, call the Police on 101 or visit www.hampshire.police.uk
