Round up of Not in my Name events

The WI marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and International White Ribbon Day

On 18 November, NFWI-Wales hosted events at the Senedd to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and International White Ribbon Day (25 November), the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

Co-chaired by NFWI-Wales Chair Jill Rundle and Joyce Watson MS, the stakeholder event brought together a wide range of stakeholders to reflect on the current situation and the action needed to end the scourge of violence against women and girls (VAWG).

In her opening address, Jill Rundle noted that tragically at least 70 women in the UK have this year lost their lives to male violence against women (as at 30 October) and said that bold action was needed to address the pandemic of VAWG. NFWI Chair Jeryl Stone addressed delegates about the WI’s commitment to ending VAWG.

Panel speakers included Samsunear Ali, Chief Executive, Bawso; Tanya Bull, Head of Health, UNISON Cymru Wales; and Jane Hutt MS, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice.

Watch a recording of the event here.

Bunting, created by WI member Theresa Lloyd from Dinas Powys WI, was on display with a pennant honouring the women in the UK who had been murdered by a man in 2024.

Stakeholders also took the opportunity to sign the Not in my Name pledge board.

In the evening, a candlelight vigil took place in the Pierhead building followed by a short walk. The vigil heard powerful contributions from survivors Rachel and Sera; Jane Hutt MS, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice; Michael Taggart, White Ribbon ambassador and White Ribbon UKTrustee; Jeryl Stone, NFWI Chair and representatives from each of the political parties - Rhun ap Iorwerth MS (Plaid Cymru); Jack Sargeant MS (Welsh Labour); Councillor William Powell (Welsh Liberal Democrats); and Gareth Davies MS (Welsh Conservatives).

The vigil ended with an uplifting performance from Llamau Choir.