‘Break the Silence’ on abuse of women and girls

A CHARITY working to end violence against women and girls has launched a powerful campaign urging men to take a stand.

Press Red, based in Wythenshawe, is calling on all men to ‘Break the Silence’ and speak out if they see abuse, harassment or violence against women and girls. The organisation has released a series of videos showing scenarios all too familiar for many – including being harassed on the bus, a man not taking no for answer in a pub, and a male colleague acting inappropriately.

Two of the short films depict an incident of abuse based on the real-life experience of survivors.

In each video, a male bystander intervenes in the situation to help the victim when a friend is abusive.

A third clip highlights how people often keep quiet when they see abuse or harassment, as they don’t want to get involved, or see it as not their problem.

The Break the Silence campaign is aiming to educate, empower and equip men who want to help in these situations, but may not know where to start.

Press Red have launched their campaign to coincide with the UN Women International 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

Press Red is a charity educating, equipping and empowering on the issues of violence against women and girls. Since it was founded in 2016 it has educated more than 3,000 people about violence and abuse. Rosemary Hack, director of Press Red, said: “Gender violence is not just a women’s issue. Gender violence is a global issue that impacts us all.

“We need to take note of this and work together to end gender violence against women and girls. That’s why we have launched #BreakTheSilence.”

She added: “Our message to men everywhere is that breaking the silence starts with you. Join us in taking a stand.”