Milton Keynes City Council is championing local support for White Ribbon, the global campaign that encourages people, especially men and boys, to challenge behaviour and change the culture that leads to abuse and violence against women.
As reported by MKFM, the campaign’s ’16 Days of Activism’ began with a torchlight vigil in Campbell Park.
The City Council has been White Ribbon Accredited since 2022. Its work includes measures to improve safety in the community, support for women and children who need to escape abuse, and city centre upgrades including increased lighting in underpasses and CCTV along popular pedestrian routes.
It has established a network of male Ambassadors (men who speak up for women and girls and against misogyny) and female Champions among its employees and councillors, to raise awareness of issues.
"In Milton Keynes, we are proud to stand together against violence towards women and girls,`' said Councillor Amber McQuillan, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, “Supporting the White Ribbon Campaign is about making our city safer, more respectful, and ensuring that everyone feels valued in our community.
`'Together, we can challenge harmful behaviours and ensure that women and girls in MK feel safe and supported by men and boys,” she added.
This year, the White Ribbon Campaign chose Milton Keynes to be the only city to showcase a new multi-media portrait exhibition featuring national White Ribbon Ambassadors from around the UK.
The We Speak Up exhibition created by artist Claudia Janke is on display at Silbury Arcade, centre:mk.
A free domestic abuse awareness event this evening (Thursday, November 27) at the City Council’s Civic offices will bring local agencies together to highlight the help and support available. To book your free ticket, visit Eventbrite.
