White Ribbon Day and 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

Cathedrals marked White Ribbon Day yesterday and will mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with special services of support, prayers, art exhibitions and Ely will light up its Octagon Tower white.

White Ribbon Day 2024

To mark 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence 2024, Worcester Cathedral has partnered with artist Stephanie Green to host the ‘[In]Visible’ installation in the Lady Chapel until 10 December.

The exhibition features a series of ethereal voile panels adorned by the words of survivors.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that runs from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women until 10 December, Human Rights Day.

Inspired by the concept ‘behind closed doors’, this installation is an intimate exploration of the silent, unseen realities faced by people who have endured gender-based violence.

It offers a poignant juxtaposition – delicate fabrics moving gently, veiling the harsh and painful words of those who have shared their stories. At a distance, the beauty of the installation captivates. Yet, as you draw closer, the weight of these hidden truths becomes inescapable.

Each panel has been developed through community workshops and guided by those with lived experience, whose voices are represented in this piece.

A spokesperson for Worcester Cathedral said:

“[In]Visible is a reminder of our collective responsibility to acknowledge these stories, break the silence, and work toward healing and justice, as we journey in faith towards God’s restoration of community and an end to violence.”

The exhibition is supported by materials to signpost to help for anyone in need or triggered.

For more information, please click here.

Truro Cathedral is hosting the Loud Fence display for the third time and inviting people to share their messages on Facebook.

Loud Fence is a visible display of support and solidarity with those affected by abuse. The ribbons tied to each fence represent the voices of those who wish to speak out in support and defence of those affected by abuse.

Everyone is invited to join in by tying a ribbon, pausing to reflect, offering a prayer and making a resolution to #SmashtheSilence and #EndAbuseNow.

The Loud Fence will remain at the cathedral until 18 December and will be available to see during general visiting times.

Newcastle Cathedral’s Lantern Initiative – inspired by its unique tower that acted as a guiding light by which ships could navigate a safe passage – held a special service of remembrance and commitment to ending violence against women today.

Shared stories, poems, and prayers honoured those who have lost their lives from gender-based violence and people were invited to show  their solidarity by placing white ribbons as a public pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about abuse, harassment or violence toward women.

Newcastle Diocese Mothers Union is marking the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence with the ‘Butterfly Display’ in the Chapel of the Resurrection.

The display highlights the fact that 1 in 3 women around the world will suffer from some form of violence throughout their lifetime and are prevented from being the person they were called to be.

The display features this poignant message:

“Victims of gender-based violence, like butterflies trapped in barbed wire, are unable to fly free or display their true colours.

“Victims, like silent butterflies, are rarely noticed or heard despite being violated.

“Their hearts are filled with silent cries and prayers.”

Visitors are encouraged to add their own butterflies and messages of hope to the display. There are also resources and prayers designed to challenge harmful attitudes, inspire change, and bring life-giving freedom to those who suffer from abuse.

And this evening Ely’ Cathedral’s Octagon Tower will be lit up white to mark White Ribbon Day – a global campaign that takes place annually on November 25 to raise awareness and end violence against women and girls.

The cathedral has teamed up with East Cambs District Council to highlight the cause on their social media platforms.