A choir has been performing at railway stations in the East Midlands and Yorkshire as part of a campaign to raise awareness of violence against women and girls.
On Friday (28th November) the Fun Chorus Choir performed at Nottingham, Lincoln and Sheffield stations, alongside East Midland Railway’s (EMR) crime and security team, in support of the White Ribbon Campaign.
White Ribbon Day, which took place last Tuesday (25th November) marked the start of the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.
The campaign is a call to action for men to make the White Ribbon promise: “To never commit, excuse or stay silent about violence against women and to actively challenge the attitude.”
EMR, which is part of Transport UK, was recently awarded White Ribbon UK accreditation for its commitment to work towards ending violence against women and girls.
To secure the accreditation, the rail operator came up with an action plan spanning the next three years which will involve recruiting ambassadors throughout its workforce.
“Working with the White Ribbon Choir has been a powerful way to connect with our communities and spark conversations about a subject that affects far too many women,” said EMR community safeguarding and security manager Danielle Clarke.
“Their performances brought people together, created moments of reflection, and helped us share vital safeguarding information in a supportive and engaging way.”
Ms Clarke added: “We want everyone who travels with us to feel safe, and these events are an important reminder that we all have a part to play in challenging harmful behaviours and protecting those at risk.”
A spokesperson from the Fun Chorus Choir added that performing as part of the White Ribbon campaign was incredibly important.
“Music has the power to bring people together and open up conversations that can make a real difference,” they said.
“We’re proud to stand alongside EMR in raising awareness and encouraging everyone to take a stand against violence towards women and girls.”
