A movement calling for an end to violence against women made its voice heard after the traditional opening of the Mart in Lynn’s Tuesday Market Place on Thursday.
One Billion Rising, a global campaign, held a Valentine’s Day of action calling on women around the world to walk away from their homes, businesses and jobs and join together to dance in a show of collective strength,
Alexandra Kemp, county councillor for Clenchwarton and Lynn South, organised local participation in the event, which saw women from the campaign and local Soroptimists handing out leaflets.
She said: “We still live in a world where a third of teenagers in a relationship experience violence. In Norfolk, two women a year are killed by their partners. We are calling for the right for everyone to live free from violence and free from the fear of violence.
“It’s about a better present and a better future for everyone in Norfolk. Children are best able to fulfil their potential when they grow up in a loving home free from fear. This Valentine’s Day the message is the person you love deserves the best.”
Jenny McKibben, Norfolk’s deputy police and crime commissioner, backed the Lynn event. She said: “Freedom from fear at home is the right of every woman. Unfortunately too many women suffer violence and abuse at the hands of their partners – sometimes with tragic consequences for families.
“Stephen Bett (Norfolk’s police and crime commissioner) and I have already chosen to financially support the work of two Norfolk agencies which assist victims of domestic violence to get their lives back on track.
“We’re pleased to give our backing to One Billion Rising in the hope that it helps women understand they don’t have to put up with violence in the home and that help is available.
“We have pledged to put the safety of individuals first and domestic violence is one of the priority crimes that we’ve identified for specific action. This was a clear promise in Stephen’s election campaign and we are determined to deliver on it.”
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