Council supports ‘Stand Up. Speak Out’ campaign

Council supports ‘Stand Up. Speak Out’ campaign

31 July 2024

NEWRY, Mourne and Down Council is backing a new campaign to tackle misogyny and sexism.

Working in partnership with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and the South and South Eastern Health Trusts, the council is supporting the new ‘Stand Up. Speak Out. Be the Change’ campaign.

Through the creation of a series of short videos, posted on social media and YouTube, the campaign vividly portrays the effect of men’s behaviour towards women. 

The campaign emphasises what some people may dismiss as ‘banter’, some humour can be deeply unsettling and in some cases frightening to women.

It urges men to stand up and speak out when they witness harassment, to challenge sexism and misogyny and to help create a safer environment for women and girls.

Council chairman Pete Byrne said: “The council fully supports this campaign and is committed to creating an environment across our district where women and girls feel safe and respected, and as a council, we also support the call to reduce violence against women and girls.”

He added: “I urge everyone to stand up, speak out, and be the change needed to end violence against women and girls.”

For women or girls who have been subject to this type of behaviour, or who feel threatened or uncomfortable, support can be found by contacting the Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline at 0808 802 1414 which is open 24/7, 365 days a year.

Alternatively, women can contact Women’s Aid Northern Ireland 028 3025 0765 for further advice.