Worcester is set to hold a campaign event against men's violence towards women on White Ribbon Day.
Worcester City Council's event, which will take place on Monday, November 25, comes after a tragic incident in Redditch where a man was charged with murder following the fatal stabbing of Cheryl McKenna.
Liberal Democrat Councillor Sarah Murray, member champion for personal safety and civility in public office, has been at the forefront of the initiative.
Her White Ribbon motion received unanimous cross-party support last year, prompting the council to work towards becoming a White Ribbon accredited organisation.
The global campaign aims to end violence against women by promoting positive masculinity, respect, and support for survivors.
Cllr Murray has trained as a domestic abuse champion through Worcester Community Trust’s Dawn Project, enabling her to guide victims of domestic abuse to essential support services.
She recently encouraged fellow councillors to take the White Ribbon pledge and become White Ribbon champions and ambassadors, a call that was well received by city council members.
Businessman Stuart Wild, inspired by Cllr Murray, is also working towards accreditation for his business, Hoge 100.
He said: "Our team fully supports the principles behind White Ribbon, and it’s time we use our platform to reinforce the message that violence against women is never acceptable."
Councillor Murray, who lost a close friend to domestic abuse in the early 1990s, said: "Unless we all acknowledge the reality of violence against women and girls, this can too easily become a token gesture.
"We must confront and change our culture—a culture where women are still not treated as equal members of society.
"Men hold the key.
"We need to stop objectifying women, stop treating them as second-class citizens, and stand up to sexism and misogyny."
To mark the day, Worcestershire Women’s Aid and Worcester Community Trust are hosting a public event at The Guildhall on Monday, November 25, from 11am to 2pm.
Councillor Murray said: "This is a community effort.
"By fostering awareness, education, and solidarity, Worcester can lead by example in the fight against violence towards women."
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