20 November 2012

Wellington men to run for White Ribbon Day

Wellington men are pinning on their white ribbons this Friday and taking to the streets of Wellington to mark White Ribbon Day.

They will be taking part in the annual White Ribbon day run in which men in teams of eight to ten will run through downtown Wellington holding long, white ribbons. The race is part of a national and international campaign when people, particularly men, wear a white ribbon to demonstrate they won’t tolerate, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

The run has been organised by the Te Rito Wellington Family Violence Network.

Around 170 men from a wide variety of occupations will be participating. They include men from Government agencies, NGOs, the Defence Forces, schools and churches.

It is not too late to join the race, says organiser Janet Bagshaw. Any men interested in taking part can contact her.

“Every man who takes a stand against violence against women should be encouraged and congratulated, says Janet.”

The run starts in Bunny Street, near Parliament, at midday and ends at Civic Square about 12.30pm where there will be speeches and the presentation of certificates to race participants.

White Ribbon supporters will be giving away ribbons at the Railway Station and around the streets of Wellington throughout the day and encouraging all Wellingtonians to demonstrate they support White Ribbon Day.

Wellingtonians are encouraged to come along to support the participants and enjoy the White Ribbon atmosphere.

ENDS

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