White Ribbon Day, an annual event marked on November 25th, serves as a reminder of the year-long commitment to ending violence against women and girls. This day is recognized by White Ribbon UK, the leading charity that works with men and boys to prevent violence against women and girls.
The theme for White Ribbon Day 2024, as announced by White Ribbon UK, is “It Starts with Men.” This theme emphasizes the role that men play in creating a safer and more respectful society for women and girls. Each year, thousands of people in workplaces, communities, schools, and clubs participate in activities to raise awareness about the importance of preventing violence against women and girls. White Ribbon UK also provides free resources to support these activities, which can be downloaded from their website.
Anthea Sully, Chief Executive of White Ribbon, stated, “Violence against women and girls is rooted in harmful masculine norms. White Ribbon Day is a crucial opportunity to bring everyone together and promote the necessary culture change to prevent abuse, harassment, and violence. By starting with men, we can address the attitudes and behaviors that contribute to the fear of violence in women’s day-to-day lives.”
In addition to promoting the theme for White Ribbon Day 2024, White Ribbon UK also shared information about the event and its mission. The charity works towards preventing violence against women and girls by addressing the root causes, such as harmful and dominant masculine norms. By striving to change long-established attitudes, behaviors, and systems around masculinity, White Ribbon UK aims to eradicate gender inequality and violence against women.
In the past, White Ribbon Day has seen various activities and collaborations to raise awareness about preventing violence against women and girls. In 2023, young people across England and Wales directed and filmed videos to spread the message of White Ribbon Day. The Football Association of Wales also dedicated the international match between Wales and Turkey to White Ribbon Day, with players wearing White Ribbon t-shirts, ribbons, and armbands. Additionally, the organization collaborated with the Welsh Government’s Sound campaign and released a video featuring players to mark the day. In 2023, over 2,800 people participated in a White Ribbon Day Parkrun, organized by councils, Police and Crime Commissioners, and White Ribbon Ambassadors and Champions.
For media inquiries, contact media@whiteribbon.org.uk. For more information about White Ribbon UK, visit www.whiteribbon.org.uk/about-us.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.