A RECLAIM the Night march is to take place in Reading town centre this weekend.
The annual event is a vigil aimed at raising awareness of gender-based violence against women, and is part of the White Ribbon Day 2023.
The organisation aims to engage men and boys to end violence against women and girls.
It says that violence experienced by women and girls takes many forms. Some behaviours and words may seem ‘harmless’ but normalising them ignores the short- and long-term effects on women and can lead to
more extreme violence.
The route will start at Reading Town Hall at 6pm, then process along Friar Street, West Street, Broad Street and Minster Street before going through Gun Street and St Mary’s Butts and ending at the Reading Safe Space in Reading Minster Church in Chain Street.
Anthea Sully, chief executive of White Ribbon UK, said the day is an important time for reflection and action by men.
“The reality is violence experienced by women is mostly perpetrated by men. We
know that it’s not all men, but all men can #ChangeTheStory and challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate sexism and misogyny,” she said.
“White Ribbon UK works with men, in their communities and places of work, to understand what constitutes as violence and know how to appropriately respond and challenge it.
“Ending violence against women starts when we #ChangeTheStory and we need men leading this change with their family, friends
and colleagues so that women may live their lives free from the fear of violence.”
The event will include guests speakers, and takes place on Friday, November 24.
It is partly organised by Reading Students’ Union.
White Ribbon UK is also partnering with Sky Sports on Saturday to raise awareness about the importance of male allyship in sport among fans and players, on and off the pitch. Presenters will wear White Ribbons and a campaign video will air throughout the day.
