Rally and March in Todmorden to End Male Violence Against Women
Friday, 26 November 2021
Todmorden, Saturday 27 November, Meet at 4 pm at Pollination Street: women only
A women's group named 'Todmorden Women's Patrol' will hold a march and rally with speakers on 27 November 2021 to protest against male violence against women and girls. The march is held in support of the United Nations campaign for International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The slogan is 'Orange the World', so attendees are encouraged to wear or bring something orange.
The Todmorden group was set up in response to attacks that had been happening in the area which resulted in many women feeling concerned about walking the streets. The group seeks to empower women and build confidence by being with other women and walking the streets. Several patrols have taken place where women have walked around Todmorden at night in groups, building connections with each other and looking out for lone women or attacks.
The group has held vigils to raise awareness and honour women who have died due to male violence such as the recent tragic deaths of Sarah Everard and Sabrina Nessa.
Maddy Taylor, co-founder of Todmorden Women's Patrol, commented, "Recent events around Calderdale have brought women together in Todmorden to take action against male violence! It is time for change. We are calling on all members of the community to take a stand and come out on 27 November to say NO to male violence against women!".
In the UK, 3 women a week are murdered by a current or former male partner; 1 in 4 women are raped in their lifetime; the rape conviction rate is 1.5% - the lowest since records began; and women and girls are harassed in the street on a daily basis.
During the day, the group will also hold a stall at Todmorden market which will provide information on women's services and domestic violence support groups.
Meeting at 4pm, the women and girls march will set off at 4.30pm and march around Todmorden. There will be a men's solidarity vigil at the same time, organised by Engage, a men's feminist group.
Following the march, there will be a rally at Pollination Gardens, with speakers including a representative from Kirklees and Calderdale Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre. The names of the women who have been killed due to male violence will be read out followed by a 2 minute silence.
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