White Ribbon Ride to visit Christchurch Hospital

November 25, 2011

White Ribbon Ride to visit Christchurch Hospital

To mark White Ribbon Day, the White Ribbon Ride will visit Christchurch and Christchurch Women’s Hospitals today (November 25, 2011).

The Patriots Defence Force Motorcycle Club, who are leading this event, plan to ride past the hospitals’ main entrances and assemble on the grassy area in the Botanic Gardens opposite the Riverside entrance at about 2.30pm.

Wearing a white ribbon is a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence towards women.

Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) Executive Director, Māori & Pacific Health Hector Matthews, Tahu Potiki Sterling of Nga Ratonga Hauora Māori/Māori Health Services and Child and Family Safety Service Coordinator Susan Miles will greet the riders to demonstrate Canterbury District Health Board’s strong support for the White Ribbon campaign.

Hector Matthews says the CDHB is proud to show leadership by taking a stand on violence against women.

“Too often we see the consequences of violence against women but that is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the true impact on families and society,” Mr Matthews says.

“The White Ribbon Ride is about preventing violence against women in the first place through raising awareness and gaining commitment from men.”

Posters have been on display this week in both central city hospitals and male staff are being encouraged to wear a White Ribbon to show their personal support.

“Staff are more than welcome to come and meet the riders, admire the bikes and if that’s not enough, there’s a sausage sizzle. On a more serious note though, being there will show their support and acknowledge the importance of this issue.”

Child and Family Safety Service Coordinator Susan Miles says the CDHB is able to provide day-to-day support for women affected by domestic violence through the Partner Abuse Programme.

“Through the programme, appropriate health care professionals talk proactively to women at risk and can offer practical help and support where it is needed.”

The New Zealand White Ribbon annual campaign is part of a global movement committed to ending violence against women. It is led by men who condemn such violence and are prepared to show leadership and pledge to take action.

For more information about the ride and about the White Ribbon Campaign, visit www.whiteribbon.org.nz/events/white-ribbon-ride/

ENDS

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