June 19, 2012
White Ribbon is a global campaign to ensure that men take more responsibility for reducing the level of violence against women. The National White Ribbon Relay is sending a baton around Britain and holding events to increase understanding of the impact major sporting events –such as Euro 2012 and the Olympic and Paralympic Games - have on the occurrence and nature of violence.
The Portsmouth White Ribbon Group is teaming up with Hampshire Fire and Rescue to hold a mini sports day for the public. This event will kick off a national relay to raise awareness of the links between major sporting events and violence against women and girls.and the first fifty participants will receive a goody bag and certificate.
The relay has been organised by the Portsmouth White Ribbon Group in partnership with local frontline service providers, Aurora New Dawn, and national advocacy organisation, Standing Together Against Domestic Violence. The National Relay launch will take place in the Guildhall Square on Saturday 23rd June from 11am – 1pm. Officers from Hampshire Fire and Rescue will be competing alongside members of the public in mini sports day activities such as egg and spoon, and relay races.
Solent Feminist Network will be hosting an information stall providing information about violence against women and the local groups and organisations working to address it.
Portsmouth’s Director of Public Health, Paul Edmondson-Jones, will be attending the event on behalf of the city and will formally hand over the baton to Portsmouth White Ribbon to start the Relay.
Chris Hancox, National Campaign Manager for White Ribbon UK said: “We think the Relay is an excellent way of bringing people together to stand up against violence against women and girls. We expect it, and the many different local events associated with it, will help raise awareness of this widespread issue that blights many people’s lives and is still largely a taboo subject. Any initiative like this is really welcome. Well done to our Portsmouth supporters for organising it!”
After taking part in the sports day, certificates will be given that feature the White Ribbon pledge: “not to commit, condone or stay silent about violence against women”. The baton will be formally handed over to the White Ribbon Group, who will transport it to Cheltenham for the next relay event organised by the Gloucestershire Police Force.
The progress of the baton can be followed on Facebook and Twitter.
For more details call Sarah on 07545 227979.
