Penzance is proudly joining the worldwide movement to eliminate violence against women and girls with its annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Running from Monday, November 25th, to Sunday, December 10th, this impactful campaign will showcase a comprehensive lineup of events throughout the region, aimed at raising awareness, encouraging healthy practices, and fostering meaningful change.
The campaign will kick off with a Solidarity Night Walk and Vigil on November 25th, paying tribute to women whose lives have been tragically affected by gender-based violence. Participants will gather at 5:30 PM at Wherrytown Skatepark and will proceed along the Promenade to St Mary’s Church on Chapel Street, where a candlelit vigil will be held. This event is open to all and serves to amplify awareness while advocating for accountability, uniting the community in the fight against gender violence.
Dynamic Performances and Engaging Workshops Across Cornwall
A highlight of this year’s campaign is the return of performers from The Big Dance Company, who will present a striking flash mob in Camborne, Redruth, Truro, and St Ives. Their choreography poignantly underscores the tragic impact of domestic abuse on children and young individuals.
Additional activities include:
- Wellness classes like yoga, pilates, and sound baths at the Old School Studio, Newlyn.
- Culinary and art workshops at Growing Links.
- Creative arts workshops at Newlyn Art Gallery.
- Personal safety training for women alongside poetry workshops.
- A Women’s Open Mic Night at The Crown.
- A Women’s DJs Dance Night at The Crumb.
- Bystander Training for those in the hospitality sector and others interested in learning safe intervention strategies.
- A Women in Politics discussion hosted by Hypatia Trust.
- An open afternoon at West Cornwall Women’s Aid’s community center.
- Fundraising coffee mornings and various other activities.
Proceeds from the events will benefit West Cornwall Women’s Aid, which provides vital support services for women affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence. Services offered include a helpline, outreach, counseling, refuge accommodation, and preventive programs.
A Unified Community Stand Against Violence
Lizzie Matthews, CEO of West Cornwall Women’s Aid, emphasized the importance of collective action against violence:
“Violence against women and girls remains a persistent issue, highlighted by numerous recent high-profile cases in the media. We call on our local community to unite with us on November 25th, sending a strong message that gender-based violence has no place in our society and must be eradicated.”
The Mayor of Penzance, Stephen Reynolds, praised the campaign’s significance:
“The 16 Days of Activism has become a well-established event in Penzance, thanks to the relentless efforts of those in our community advocating for the cessation of violence against women and girls. I take pride in our community’s commitment to addressing an issue that continues to affect countless lives.”
How to Get Involved
The 16 Days of Activism initiative is supported by both Penzance Council and Cornwall Council’s Community Capacity Fund through the Good Growth Programme. Many events are free or based on donations, making it accessible for everyone to engage.
Check the full event schedule at www.16dayspenzance.co.uk.
