CAMPAIGNERS, residents and politicians have come together today to mark White Ribbon Day, the campaign to end violence against women.

The day aims to bring people together in their communities, organisations and workplaces and say ‘no’ to violence against women and discuss solutions to its elimination.

Ceredigion MS and Llywydd of the Senedd Elin Jones MS took part in a vigil held at the Senedd building earlier this week and was joined by Arfon MS Sian Gwenllian

Mid & West Wales Senedd Member Jane Dodds marked the day during a statement in the Senedd and at a vigil in front of the Senedd by campaigners.

“It was an honour to speak at the White Ribbon event in front of the Senedd on Monday evening. It was powerful to hear the testimony of survivors and see the cross-party support among all parties in Wales to stamp out violence against women,” she said.

“Unfortunately we know violence against women has increased during the pandemic, only making the need to tackle violence against women all the more urgent.

“It is absolutely imperative that we listen to the survivors across Wales when putting forward action to eliminate this horrific crime.

“I am determined to make tackling violence against women a priority of my Senedd term.”

Dyfed-Powys Police said it “is proud to be supporting the campaign to end male violence against women again this year.”

“The force has taken a stand to end all male violence against women by being White Ribbon Accredited, and are flying the White Ribbon Flag at Police Headquarters in Carmarthen, to demonstrate their determination to tackle all violence against women as a priority,” the police said.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Dafydd Llywelyn added: “The White Ribbon Campaign highlights an important message for us every year: Creating a future without male violence against women.

“Children as well as victims are impacted by this type of abuse, and the effects are often long lasting and can significantly increases their vulnerability and risk in adulthood.

“It is a priority for us to work with partners to ensure they are given the help and support they need.”

Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt, said: “White Ribbon Day and its 16 days of activism focus on empowering men and boys to call out inappropriate behaviours, when safe to do so, and offer support.

“Tackling male violence, gender inequality and misogyny require action at both ends of the spectrum; we must support survivors and we must hold perpetrators to account but we must also create genuine behaviour change.”