This is why some Wirral landmarks will glow orange this weekend…
Hamilton Square Gardens and the Town Halls in Birkenhead and Wallasey will unite with landmarks across the globe, glowing orange from Saturday 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls.
Additionally, White Ribbon flags - a symbol of support for the survivors of domestic abuse - will fly at both Town Halls until 10 December.
The day signals the start of a 16-day campaign of activism to raise awareness of gender-based violence and abuse. Across the borough; individuals, partner organisations and community groups will come together to share their support and unite to prevent gender-based violence.
Cllr Janette Williamson, Chair of the Adult Social Care and Public Health Committee and Champion for Domestic Abuse, said:
Violence against women and girls remains one of the most prevalent and pervasive human rights violations in the world. The UN estimates that one in three women will be affected by gendered violence in their lifetime.
In Wirral we have a fantastic network of agencies and organisations working together to support survivors and I couldn’t be more proud to be working alongside many of these groups in this cause.
The colour orange, used in the global #OrangeTheWorld campaign, is intended to be a symbol of hope, a message supported by Savera UK, a charity helping to coordinate the campaign and who are working to end ‘honour’-based abuse (HBA) and all harmful practices.
Cllr Williamson added:
Orange is the official colour of the campaign, that’s why some of our landmarks will glow orange – to symbolise a brighter future free from abuse.
Along with illuminating these landmarks, here are just some of the events and actions that will be taking place across the 16 days:
- On Friday 24 November, Tomorrow’s Women Wirral will hold a launch event for the 16 days from 1-3pm at their centre in Birkenhead. This will be a women only event. Please see their social media for more details.
- There will be an event for the 16 days of action at Wirral Met College, for invited students only.
- Colleagues in Youth Services will hold awareness raising sessions with young people.
- Paul Lavelle Foundation will deliver Healthy Relationship Workshops to Wirral Met Students throughout the 16 days.
- The Domestic Abuse Hub will hold a Light the Night walk for invited groups only.
For more information, advice or local support, visit: www.itsneverokwirral.org.
