Council reaffirms White Ribbon Charter commitment

THE Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, has renewed the Council’s commitment to ending violence against women and girls by signing the White Ribbon Charter.

Reaffirming this pledge is a crucial step in demonstrating the council’s ongoing dedication to creating a community where women and girls can live free from violence, fear, and intimidation.

The White Ribbon Charter is a global call to action, urging individuals, organisations, and institutions to challenge the attitudes, behaviours, and cultural norms that allow violence against women and girls to continue.

By renewing its commitment, the council reinforces the message that preventing violence is not a one-time action but a sustained effort that requires leadership, visibility, and collective responsibility.

Antrim and Newtownabbey now stands alongside more than 40 organisations across Northern Ireland, including schools, workplaces, and sports organisations, in pledging to never commit, condone, or remain silent about violence against women.

“Recent attacks on women across Northern Ireland are deeply troubling and completely unacceptable,” said Councillor Kirkpatrick.

“By signing the White Ribbon Charter for another year, we are publicly committing to challenge harmful behaviours and promote equality and respect throughout our Borough.

“Reaffirming this pledge is important because it signals that we will not allow complacency.

“Together, we must continue working towards a community where everyone feels safe, valued, and supported.”

White Ribbon NI will be collaborating with the Council and local community in the year ahead, planning initiatives including workshops, school partnerships, and programmes with youth groups and sports clubs designed to challenge the attitudes and beliefs that can lead to violence against women and girls.

For more information, visit www.whiteribbonni.org