Public Services Minister marks White Ribbon Day

The 25th November marks International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and White Ribbon Day.

He will “Light a Candle” of remembrance at a service in Llandaff Cathedral, a multi-faith event held annually in support of silent victims of domestic abuse.

The service is organised by Bawso and held in partnership with Welsh Women’s Aid, Cardiff Women’s Aid, New Pathways, Unite, Safer Wales and Wales Centre for International Affairs.

Following the service, Leighton Andrews will speak at the White Ribbon ‘Not in My Name’ campaign event in the Senedd.

This international campaign engages men and boys in tackling violence against women and girls.  By wearing a white ribbon, men pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

The ‘Not in My Name’ event will call for councils, schools, colleges, health organisations and others to use their influence to promote the White Ribbon message – to never commit, condone or stay quiet about violence against women.

The Welsh Government’s commitment to dealing with violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence was formally recognised through the White Ribbon accreditation received in June 2014.

The Violence against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (Wales) Act 2015 received Royal Assent on 29 April. This landmark piece of legislation is the first of its kind in the UK. It sets the vision and direction for Wales and implementation of the Act is well underway.

The Minister will end the day with a candlelight vigil, from the Pierhead Building to the steps of the Senedd, which will be illuminated with a white ribbon to mark the day.

Leighton Andrews said:

“We have all come together today to raise awareness of violence against women.  We are proud of the progress we have made in the past year with the passing of our ground-breaking Violence Against Women Act.  But there is much more to do.  We now have the momentum needed to work together to make a significant impact on vulnerable people’s lines in the years ahead.”