Speaking in advance of “White Ribbon Day” at STUC Congress in Inverness, at which all male delegates will be asked to wear white ribbons in support of the campaign against violence against women, STUC General Secretary Grahame Smith said:
“I am proud that the STUC is highlighting the epidemic of violence against women that results in the tragic deaths of two women each year in this country. Women in Scotland deserve to live free of the threat of stalking, rape and domestic violence.”
Accord and South Lanarkshire and East Kilbride Trades Union Council are supporting a motion at STUC Congress that calls on trade union men to challenge the acceptance of domestic abuse and sexual violence, which affects one third of women worldwide.
John Watson, Scottish Programme Director for Amnesty International, a key partner in the White Ribbon Campaign, said:
“To change the attitudes in our society which accept and normalise violence against women we need progressive people around the country to stand up and be counted. With their historic commitment to campaigning for equality, trade unions have a central part to play in that.”
Isabelle Gray, Development Manager of the Scottish Women’s Convention, said:
“Male violence against women and children can only be eradicated if men become involved in campaigning and speaking out.”
For further information contact
Ann Henderson 07875 208167
Notes to editors
- White Ribbon Scotland campaign is a new campaign that aims to:
• Endorse and clearly state the vital role of non-perpetrating men in challenging and stopping violence against women
• Identify, create and promote opportunities for non-perpetrating men to be involved in the campaign to Stop Violence Against Women in Scotland
• Increase the capacity of men in Scotland to engage in the campaign to Stop Violence Against Women, through examination and dissemination of best practice from the UK and abroad