A thought-provoking exhibition calling for an end to violence toward women and girls will be revealed in the new city tomorrow (Nov 25), to mark the annual White Ribbon and Orange the World Vigil.
The Annual Vigil, organised by volunteers from organisations across Milton Keynes, including Fawcett Society, Soroptimist International, MK City Council, MK:ACT and SAASSBMK marks a dual awareness day: White Ribbon Day when men and boys speak up about their year-round action to prevent violence against women and girls, and The United Nations International Day for The Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls.
Fifty pieces have been crafted for the exhibition by community groups and survivors of domestic violence, each of them carrying a message of hope, resilience and solidarity.
Contributions range from knitted items to sculptures, paintings and needlework, with each piece telling a thought-provoking story, depicting the feelings, thoughts and in some cases, despair of those trapped in domestic violence, as well as the hope and resilience of survivors
The creations will decorate The Rose in Campbell Park, and each of the crafts has been photographed by MK College students, for a photographic exhibition which will be available to view in Midsummer Arcade starting tomorrow (Tues) through to December 10, which is Human Rights Day.
“The response we have had from the communities and individuals across Milton Keynes, some of whom are the victims of violence and sexual abuse, is incredible,” said Jane Whild, founder of Voices of Women MK, “There is something extremely powerful in the craft and artistic pieces they have created. This is ‘Craft Activism’, which is putting a spotlight on the huge problem of gender-based violence and bringing it to the public’s attention in a gentle way.
“Creating awareness, dialogue and action not just in these 16 days but all year round, by constantly working together, with the organisations and communities across the City, will help promote lasting change for a safer future for women.”
> The Torchlit Vigil at The Rose, Campbell Park will take place from 6pm tomorrow.
