THE WEST Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner has reaffirmed his commitment to preventing and tackling violence against women and girls on White Ribbon Day.
Simon Foster said the day – November 25 – serves as an important reminder that real and lasting change requires collective action. Keeping women and girls safe, is everyone’s responsibility, every day of the year.
As part of this year’s theme, We Speak Up, he urged men and boys in particular to demonstrate upstander behaviour, challenge harmful attitudes, to set an example and call out unacceptable behaviour and support women and girls who may be at risk.
Mr Foster said: “Allowing sexist and misogynistic behaviour to pass unchallenged is unacceptable. It is abusive, intimidating and offensive. It contributes to creating an environment in which women can become victims of violence and abuse.
“This White Ribbon Day, we want more men to use their voices, to challenge and change attitudes and to speak up, to create a world where all women and girls are safe, equal and respected.
“Upstander behaviour can change and save lives. It encourages respect, challenges misogyny and ensures that silence is never an option.
“There is never an excuse for abuse.”
