New home for White Ribbon

From today the Families Commission is transferring responsibility for the delivery and management of the annual White Ribbon Campaign to the White Ribbon Campaign Trust Board.

Families Commissioner Belinda Milnes says the Commission is delighted that the Trust is taking the campaign on its next steps. She says, “The White Ribbon Campaign Trust Board is a community based organisation with the skills, experience and commitment to ensure the continued success and growth of this important campaign to reduce violence against women.

“Family violence is a complex issue and it needs government along with communities, workplaces, and families working together to make a real difference.”

The transfer is being made through a conditional grant for a two-year period.

“We are very grateful for the support of the Families Commission,” says White Ribbon Trust Chair Ric Odom. ‘Their good management has helped the campaign to work effectively with communities right throughout New Zealand helping us to raise awareness and get men to take action.

“Last year’s campaign was the largest yet with significant community involvement, so the time is now right for the campaign to take charge of its own destiny,” says Mr Odom.

Today is also the anniversary of the death of Emily Longley, who was murdered by her boyfriend three years ago.

Mark Longley, White Ribbon trustee and father of Emily explains, “As a parent that has lost a child, you are always trying to make sense of the tragedy. I donate my time to White Ribbon in the hope that no other family ever has to go through what we have endured.

“White Ribbon is about men taking responsibility. As men, we can change the behaviour of our mates. If just one of her boyfriend’s mates had not remained silent, my daughter Emily could be alive today.

“I want White Ribbon to lead a change in our culture. A change where events such as the Roast Busters Scandal could not take place and where 14 women are not killed each year,” says Mr Longley.

A White Ribbon Advisory Committee, currently chaired by Judge Peter Boshier will continue in its role, which includes appointment of White Ribbon Ambassadors and the organisation of activities. Judge Boshier will continue to lead this Committee.

The Trust has been formed from experts and advocates within the family violence sector.

Chair: Ric Odom (WR Ambassador) CEO of the RSPCA

Deputy Chair: Takurua Tawera (WR Ambassador) chair of NNSVS

Heather Henare CE Women’s Refuge

Mark Longley (WR Ambassador)

David White (WR Ambassador)

Alana Bowman (WR Committee Member)

Patron Judge Boshier (WR Ambassador and WR Committee Chair)

For more information on the White Ribbon Campaign visit the www.whiteribbon.org.nz

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