Take a Stand Against Violence: Penzance to Host Solidarity Walk and Vigil

On Monday 25th November, Penzance will host a solidarity night walk and candlelit vigil to highlight the ongoing issue of violence against women and girls. The event, now in its fourth consecutive year, invites everyone to take part and show support for this pressing cause.

Organised as part of the global campaign ‘16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence’, the walk encourages men to walk alongside women to demonstrate solidarity and actively oppose harassment, abuse, violence, rape, and objectification.

The event will begin at 5.30pm at Wherrytown car park, opposite Lidl in Penzance, with participants gathering to start the walk. Free hot drinks will be provided before the walk commences.

Candlelit Vigil at St Mary’s Church

The walk will conclude at St Mary’s Church on Chapel Street, where a candlelit vigil will be held. Names of women who have died as a result of male violence will be read aloud as a tribute. The vigil will also feature performances, talks, and food for those attending.

Lizzie Matthews, Chief Executive Officer at West Cornwall Women’s Aid, emphasised the importance of the event in the current climate.
“Violence against women and girls continues to be a persistent issue, underscored by the many recent, high-profile cases in the media. We urge our local community to stand together with us on 25th November, sending a clear message that gender-based violence has no place in our society and must come to an end.”

Supported by Local Councils

The event is backed by Penzance Council and Cornwall Council’s Community Capacity Fund through the Good Growth Programme.

Cllr Stephen Reynolds, Mayor of Penzance, highlighted the importance of the campaign.
“The 16 days of activism is now firmly established as an annual event in the life of Penzance, thanks to the tireless efforts of the many people in our community who champion the cause of stopping violence against women and girls. I am proud that our community continues to stand up and be counted on this issue that still blights so many lives.”

More Events to Follow

The solidarity walk is just one event in a series planned during the 16 days of activism. For details about other activities taking place, visit the campaign’s website: www.16dayspenzance.co.uk.

This is an opportunity for the community to come together and stand against gender-based violence while remembering those lost to it. Everyone is welcome to join and take a stand.