What's Happening?
The Ipswich Reclaim the Night march is set to return on November 25, organized by the University of Suffolk students' union. This event aims to highlight and combat violence against women and girls. The march will coincide with the White Ribbon Day campaign,
a global movement to end male violence against women. In February, about 150 people participated in the event, and organizers hope to see similar or increased participation this time. Mia-Nicole Brown, the union's president of activities and wellbeing, emphasized the importance of continuing the conversation around domestic violence, which affects many lives. Data from the National Police Chiefs' Council indicates that at least one in every 12 women is a victim of violence each year, with over a million crimes involving violence against women and girls recorded in England and Wales between 2022 and 2023.
Why It's Important?
The return of the Ipswich Reclaim the Night march underscores the ongoing need for awareness and action against gender-based violence. Such events play a crucial role in maintaining public discourse on the issue, encouraging community involvement, and supporting survivors. The march also aligns with broader campaigns like White Ribbon Day, which aim to challenge societal norms and promote a culture of respect and equality. By bringing attention to these issues, the event seeks to foster a safer environment for women and girls, potentially influencing public policy and societal attitudes towards gender-based violence.
What's Next?
As the event approaches, organizers will release full details of the march, which is part of a wider safety campaign by the students' union. The march is expected to draw attention from local and national media, potentially influencing public opinion and policy. Participants and supporters are encouraged to continue advocating for change beyond the event, contributing to a sustained effort to combat gender-based violence.
