Kingston marks White Ribbon Day with ongoing commitment to end violence against women and girls

On Saturday 16 November, residents gathered for the Pearl Project celebration event organised by Voices of Hope and Robyn Harper Photography, in partnership with the council. The stories of nine incredible survivors of gender-based abuse took centre stage in an evening that was a testament to strength, resilience and community.

Kingston Council became a White Ribbon accredited organisation three years ago, signalling its ongoing commitment to working to end violence against women and girls.

At the Pearl Project event Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Councillor Liz Green said: 

"The safety of all women and girls has always been a high priority for Kingston Council. Three years ago, we became a White Ribbon accredited organisation, and we've been working really closely with communities and community groups to raise awareness and improve safety for women and girls even more.  

 

"The Pearl Project is a result of one of these partnerships. The event honoured the resilience and celebrated the stories of brave women survivors of gender-based abuse, and through this, helped raise awareness of the issues around women's safety in South West London, helping us to build a safer future for all."

Almost 300 people attended the event where they saw the Voices of Hope Sisterhood Choir joined by the London Fire Brigade Choir for an amazing performance. Cherelle Abraham-Brown, ex England boxer and a former World Boxing Champion, who trained with the 2012 and 2016 Olympic team, was also present, and shared her story of overcoming abuse and inspiring others.

Sarah Clay, CEO of Voices of Hope said:

"Abuse, in all its forms, has one ultimate goal: disempowerment. It seeks to take away autonomy, dignity, and voice. It isolates, silences, and diminishes. I'm proud to be part of the Kingston community where we are reclaiming what abuse seeks to take away and destroy. Honouring survivors is a profound act of defiance against the disempowerment of abuse and is a source of hope and inspiration to everyone as we go into the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.

 

"We are so grateful to the businesses, charities, council members, and community members who have supported this project. Together, we are creating a space where survivors can share their stories and inspire others to do the same."

For those who would like to show support, Voices of Hope set up the Emergency Fund for Women Leaving Domestic Violence in SW London and Surrey, which provides urgent support for women and children escaping abuse. It helps them access safe housing, food, transport, and essential services as they rebuild their lives.

As part of Kingston Council’s ongoing work to end violence against women and girls a White Ribbon Walk, co-organised with Richmond Council, will take place during 16 Days of Activism, which starts today. You can find out more about this event, and the council’s wider work to end violence against women and girls here. 
You can sign up for the White Ribbon Promise here.