Bracknell Forest Council, in partnership with Berkshire Women’s Aid (BWA) and Kaleidoscopic UK, are marking White Ribbon Day on Thursday 27 November. All are welcome to mark the day and remember the victims of violence with a lantern parade and civic ceremony.
The White Ribbon has become a globally recognised symbol to end men’s violence against women and girls. Since the beginning of the White Ribbon movement 34 years ago, it has become an important symbol in the fight to end gender-based violence.
This year, the theme is ‘We Speak Up’. Sexist jokes, catcalling, staring, and comments might seem harmless, but they are serious because they can lead to violence and abuse.
Allyship is a central message of the White Ribbon campaign; men are asked to use their voices and speak up to create a world where everyone is safe, equal and respected. The theme of ‘We Speak Up’ calls on everyone, especially men and boys, to take responsibility to challenge harmful attitudes and become allies in creating a safer, more equal society.
Lantern parade and civic ceremony
To mark the day and remember the victims of violence, Bracknell Forest Council is holding a lantern parade and civic ceremony.
Date: Thursday 27 November
When: 5:45pm
Where: The Lexicon
The parade will begin in Princess Square and end in Union Square. The parade will be followed by speeches, reflection and remembrance. The event includes choral performances from The Royal Harmonics.
Please note that this date is different from what was previously advertised.
Lantern workshop
You are invited to join a free workshop and create your own lanterns for the parade. No experience is needed, just your enthusiasm!
The workshop will guide you through the process of making a traditional paper and willow lantern with a battery-operated candle. All materials will be provided, and you’ll leave with a finished lantern ready to shine on the night of the parade.
Although the subject matter is serious, we aim for people to come away from this event feeling hopeful and empowered. We encourage all workshop participants to attend the parade on the evening of 25 November. The workshop is free to attend and run by a fully qualified, DBS checked instructor.
Reserve your space at a workshop on Eventbrite:
- Saturday 8 November from 2.30pm
- at South Hill Park Arts Centre, RG12 7PA
16 days of activism
Tuesday 25 November marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. This is followed by 16 days of activism, led by Berkshire Women’s Aid and Kaleidoscopic UK. This will be through in person and virtual workshops via businesses, schools, and other community groups.
Help and support
We know that many victims will find it hard to seek support, however, there is help available locally.
Berkshire Women’s Aid provides support to victims of domestic abuse regardless of sex, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation or disability.
Kaleidoscopic UK is a charitable organisation of survivors, for survivors of domestic abuse.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police. If you can’t speak and are calling on a mobile, press 55 to have your call transferred to the police. Find out how to call the police when you can’t speak (Silent Solution).
For more help and information, you can download and use apps such as the Bright Sky app or Hollie Guard app. Other safety initiatives include the Safe Spaces scheme and Ask for Angela.
For more information and support, visit our domestic abuse pages.
Lantern parade route
