City of York Council, in conjunction with the Civic Party, is encouraging residents to participate in a march against domestic violence on Saturday 23 November.

The ‘reclaim the night’ march, which will take place through the city centre seeks to raise awareness of domestic violence as well as being part of York’s bid to get White Ribbon Status by Easter 2014.

 

The status recognises cities and organisations which demonstrate commitment to addressing and altering social norms that lead to violent and abusive behaviour against women. It promotes support by men in prevention activities, increasing awareness and providing services aimed at reducing the incidence of domestic violence against women and children.

Alongside the march there will be speeches from Sarah Hill, Director of the Independent Domestic Abuse Service (IDAS) and The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor of York Cllr Julie Gunnell.

Participants for the event are encouraged to meet in St Helen’s Square from 6.45pm for a 7pm start and can simply turn up on the day. The march, which is open to all, will take in some of York’s historic streets such as Stonegate and Parliament Street in support of this cause.

The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor of York Cllr Julie Gunnell said: “This 30 minute march promises to be a special event in support of a great cause which I would urge residents to support. The problem of domestic violence and sexual abuse is not often spoken about and this campaign looks to publicly raise the issue. It will also greatly strengthen partnership working in York with a clear aim to deepen understanding and reduce incidents of domestic violence. It is great that work has started to help York achieve White Ribbon status and I am grateful to those who have already shown their support for the campaign.”

City of York Council’s Director of Health and Wellbeing Dr Paul Edmondson-Jones said: “Violence against women and children is still far too prevalent in society and we know that domestic violence can affect at least 1 in 4 women in their lifetime. We need men in York to join us in making the White Ribbon pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about men’s violence against women in all its forms. All residents, men, women and children are invited to participate in this event and encouraged to come along in support of this great cause.”

For more information on the campaign visit www.yorkwhiteribbon.org