The power of speaking up: 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence

Richmond Council is once again standing united against violence against women and girls (VAWG), as part of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign running from 25 November to 10 December. 

This year’s White Ribbon theme, ‘We Speak Up,’ encourages everyone in our borough to raise their voices, challenge misogynistic behaviours, and take action to prevent and respond to VAWG.

White Ribbon is working within the UN’s theme, 'UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls', which highlights something many of us see every day, that online spaces can be as unsafe as physical ones. Digital safety is an essential part of gender equality.

Richmond is committed to being part of the solution, offering webinars and training focusing specifically on online safety, providing training on how we can challenge harmful online norms together.

White Ribbon Champion, Councillor Katie Mansfield, said the 16 Days of Activism is a pertinent reminder that everyone has a role to play in creating a community where everyone can feel safe.

"This year’s White Ribbon theme reminds us again to speak up. To challenge ourselves to call out misogyny, whether in our homes, our schools, our workplaces, online, or our streets. Only then can we create the change we need."

Throughout the 16 Days, Richmond Council will be running and supporting a range of community events and activities across the borough, which are designed to raise awareness of VAWG and teach residents practical ways to get involved to inspire positive change.

See how you can get involved.

There will be a White Ribbon Torch Walk held in Richmond. Everyone is encouraged to come along and join the walk:

• Date: Saturday 6 December
• Time: 5pm
• Meeting point: York House, Twickenham

Online webinars

Sign up to one of our online webinars.

Become an Active Bystander

Join one of our ‘Active Bystander’ sessions to gain confidence in safely intervening if you witness abuse or sexual harassment in public. Everyone is welcome.

Monday session

• Date: Monday 1 December
• Time: 2 to 3.30pm

Register for Monday 1 December session

Tuesday session

• Date: Tuesday 2 December
• Time: 7 to 8.30pm

Register for Tuesday 2 December session

The Social Switch Project: Recognising and Responding to the Risks of Online Harm

This webinar equips professionals, parents, and trusted adults with the knowledge and skills to support children and young people online, respond to potential risks and promote positive, safe digital engagement.

This session is ideal for parents and anyone who has young people in their lives.

• Date: Thursday 4 December
• Time: 10 to 11.30am

Register for Recognising and Responding to the Risks of Online Harm

Incels: A Deep Dive into Extreme Misogyny

This webinar is designed to raise awareness, identification and intervention regarding incels and incel ideology. It will cover incel culture and misogyny, core beliefs, safeguarding and referral options, risk indicators and memes.

This session is ideal for parents and anyone who has young people in their lives.

• Date: Tuesday 9 December
• Time: 9.30 to 11.30

Register for Incels: A Deep Dive into Extreme Misogyny