16 Days of Activism

On 25 November, Newham council launched its support of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which begins on White Ribbon Day and runs until 10 December (Human Rights Day). This global movement encourages people everywhere to speak out online and offline to challenge harmful behaviours, and support survivors of gender-based violence. 

This year’s theme, ‘End digital violence against all women and girls,’ highlights the increasing scale and impact of online harassment, abuse, and intimidation reminding us that violence does not stop in the physical world.

Newham council is calling on residents, partners, businesses, and community groups to stand with us and join the campaign by: 

• Wearing a white ribbon from 25 November – a visible commitment to ending violence against women and girls.  
• Becoming a White Ribbon Day Ambassador – Make a real difference in your workplace and community – Sign up to become an Ambassador or Champion.  
• Lighting up the borough in orange – From 25 November – 10 December, residents and organisations are invited to place an orange light in a public-facing space to help raise awareness. 
• Wearing something orange during 25 November-10 December – a visible commitment to the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign 
• Sharing solidarity by downloading your pledge card and sharing your photo and pledge to your social media channels using: #NoExcuse #ACTtoEndViolence. Download your pledge card.  
• Participating in local events and training – Throughout the 16 Days of Activism, Newham Council is signposting residents to a range of external events and training opportunities designed to promote safety, raise awareness and support those affected by violence.  

These include bystander training, community workshops, domestic abuse support sessions, and online courses focused on protecting vulnerable residents. The programme offers practical tools to help people recognise, prevent and respond to harmful behaviours. Full details of all events and how to take part can be found here. 

For more information visit newham.gov.uk/16Days 

For information on Newham community-based domestic and sexual abuse services, please call Hestia on 0808 196 1482 or email [email protected]