This morning the White Ribbon flag was raised outside the Civic Centre following a short service.
And this evening the Civic Centre clock tower will be lit orange to mark the start of 16 days of global activism against gender-based violence.
The council has also joined the list of White Ribbon UK’s accredited organisations.
Achieving the accreditation is a commitment from us to prevent harassment, abuse and violence against women and girls, by promoting gender equality, raising awareness and ensuring that men as well as women are part of the solution.
Councillor Dimitri Batrouni, leader of Newport City Council, said: “The theme of White Ribbon Day this year is ‘it starts with men’ and it is important that men hold themselves accountable to women, and each other, to bring about a change in harmful behaviour.
“As men we need to become allies of women, we must not excuse or remain silent about men’s violence towards women and challenge inappropriate language or behaviour.
“As an organisation, we have training for staff and councillors so they can recognise the signs of domestic abuse and signpost people to where they can get help. We also offer support to employees who might themselves be victims.
“We’re pleased to be able to announce that we have been formally accredited by White Ribbon UK, and we are looking forward to working with them and partners on developing our work in support of the campaign.”
According to official figures from the ONS, 1.4 million women experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2023.
White Ribbon UK is the leading charity engaging men and boys to end violence against women and girls. Their work is preventative, we want to prevent men’s violence before it can begin.
The organisation works with almost 7000 individuals and over 400 organisations to positively change harmful cultures, attitudes and behaviours so that all women and girls can live without the fear of violence or harassment.
For more on the campaign, visit https://www.whiteribbon.org.uk/.
