Stop! It’s time to call out domestic violence

27 Nov 2024

A partnership between Soroptimists International St Albans and District, SADC, Herts police commissioner, the Bishop of St Albans, the Herts High Sheriff, St Albans District Chamber of Commerce and campaign groups marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Monday’s event was part of the Soroptimists’ Orange the World initiative, which raises awareness of the many forms of violence against women and girls with 16 days of action, and includes a call to prevent and eliminate this form of violence.

For the past four years, they have brought the campaign to Hertfordshire, with many organisations and businesses putting up orange lights, dressing themselves or their buildings in orange and more. The St Albans Museum + Gallery is one of those buildings illuminated in orange – used to symbolise a brighter future, free from violence against women and girls.

This year’s theme is ‘It Starts With Men’ which aligns with their call to action: #CallItOut!

High Sheriff Annie Brewster said: “The brilliant Soroptimists are not only encouraging buildings to be lit up in orange to reinforce the annual 16 days of activism but have introduced a call to action to call out inappropriate behaviour any of us witness be it at home, in the work place or at leisure. There are still many who are not aware coercive control is now a criminal offence and can destroy lives.

“It’s absolutely terrifying to see what’s going on. Domestic abuse isn’t just about being hit or hurt, it’s also about the emotional impact it has on people going through domestic abuse in their childhood.”

The Bishop of St Albans, the Rt Rev Alan Smith, said: “We want to be part of the answer, as together we seek to orange the world and put a stop to this dreadful, dreadful thing that’s here in our midst.”

Soroptimist host Ameeta Sabharwa said: “Violence against women and girls isn’t just a women’s issue; it is a societal crisis, one that demands a response from each and every one of us.

We know that this violence can manifest in myriad ways: domestic violence, sexual harassment, trafficking, child marriage, and online abuse. Each incident is a breach of dignity, a scar on our collective humanity. And we know, too, that the impact extends beyond individuals, creating ripples of harm that affect families, communities, and

the very fabric of our society.

“However, we also know that violence against women and girls is preventable. We see that with the right policies, community action, and widespread education, we can create a safer, more equitable world. But we must also acknowledge that progress is not uniform, nor is it fast enough.

“This is why our commitment to ending violence must be stronger than ever. We need to strengthen laws, justice systems and community-based solutions to ensure accountability and support for survivors. We need to educate our youth on healthy relationships, respect, and gender equality.”

Jane Slatter, Soroptimist International St Albans and District co-president added: “The Soroptimist Orange The World Herts “Call It Out!” campaign event really put the scale of the problem of domestic abuse and violence in the spotlight. This was working together to make a difference as a community at its best.”

Harpenden will be joining in the campaign with an event this Thursday at Park Hall from 2.30pm.

On December 2 from 5.30pm, Soroptimists and friends will be singing festive songs at St Albans City Station to raise funds for SAHWR Women’s Refuge. To join in email sistalbans@hotmail.com