White Ribbon Day: Less than a week to go

In preparation of White Ribbon Day, here at imabi we recognise that 25th November is more than just a date or a single moment on the calendar. It is a powerful call to men and boys – nationally and internationally - to take a stand and commit to preventing and ending violence against women and girls. On this day, men and boys are encouraged to wear a white ribbon, raise awareness, educate themselves and those around them about their role and commitment to ending violence against women. 

Prepare for White Ribbon Day 2024, buy your White Ribbon  

White Ribbon’s Mission: It Starts With Men  

At its core, White Ribbon’s mission is to prevent violence against women and girls by addressing the root causes of men’s violence against women: harmful attitudes, behaviours and systems around rigid gender norms and harmful expressions of masculinity that perpetuate gender inequality and gender-based violence. 

White Ribbon emphasises that men have an important role to play in preventing and ending violence, and it is not enough to simply avoid harmful behaviours personally. Instead, the movement invites and encourages men to engage in conversations, challenge stereotypes, and break the silence around gender-based violence. 

The Privilege and Responsibility of Being a White Ribbon Ambassador 

Being a White Ribbon Ambassador is a privilege that carries both an honour and a responsibility. White Ribbon Ambassadors are men and people who identify as a man who take on this responsibility. They take the White Ribbon message into their workplaces, communities and among their friends, family and colleagues.  

White Ribbon Champions are women, and people who do not identify as being a man, who promote the White Ribbon message and encourage and challenge men to get involved by finding opportunities to inspire and inform.  

Mark Balaam, the founder of imabi and the ambassador for White Ribbon UK, carries out his commitment by representing the values and mission of White Ribbon across the communities, workplace, and personal life. Mark advocates for respectful relationships and creates opportunities for meaningful conversations about tackling violence. He also recognises that violence against women isn’t an issue for women to solve alone and that the real change requires the active participation of men in dismantling harmful norms and attitudes.  

You can join and live up this meaningful commitment too!  

Register to become a White Ribbon Ambassador or Champion. 

How You Can Stand with White Ribbon on White Ribbon Day 

Whether you are a man, a White Ribbon Ambassador/Champion, or simply someone looking to support the cause, here are meaningful ways to stand together with White Ribbon on White Ribbon Day and beyond: 

• Make the White Ribbon Promise: Commit to White Ribbon’s mission by promising to never use, excuse, or remain silent about violence against women (waring the white ribbon is a symbol of this promise) 

• Engage in Conversations: Start discussions with friends, family, or colleagues about the importance of ending violence and the role that men have got to play 

• Educate Yourself and Others: Equip yourself with knowledge about the issue, search statistics, read stories, and evaluate the underlying social factors that contribute to gender-based violence. Share what you learn with others 

• Challenge Harmful Behaviours: Be an active bystander – call out and address disrespectful language, behaviour, or attitudes when you witness them. Don’t leave inappropriate comments or actions unnoticed 

• Support Local Communities and Organisations: Volunteer, donate, or raise awareness for organisations working to end violence against women 

• Be Consistent: White Ribbon Day may be one day of focus, but the mission continues every day 

Join us on White Ribbon Day on 25th of November 2024 and stand with us by helping to prevent violence against women and girls. Together we can!