Over 100 individuals participated in a peaceful march to voice their opposition to the escalating violence targeting women, expressing concerns that progress may be regressing. Women’s March events were staged in multiple locations in the UK and around the globe, with particular emphasis placed on the significance of the Middlesbrough gathering due to the town’s distressing distinction as having one of the nation’s highest rates of domestic violence.
Lucy Wade, a dedicated protester, shared that her presence was motivated by a family member’s traumatic experience of being severely assaulted. “I’m standing here in solidarity for her,” she affirmed.
The UK Women’s March highlighted a distressing 37% surge in violent incidents against women and girls since the year 2018. Concurrently, in Washington DC, throngs of demonstrators thronged the streets to express their dissent against the reemergence of Donald Trump at the White House.
Reflecting on the day’s events, Lucy Wade described the atmosphere as emotionally charged. Another participant, Liz Askins, marveled at the remarkable turnout of individuals in Teesside on a chilly mid-January day, underscoring the gravity of the cause. She drew a stark parallel between domestic abuse and terrorism, emphasizing the urgency for unity in combating such atrocities. “As someone nearing the age of 60, I had hoped for progress, but it appears we are regressing. It is imperative for us to band together,” Askins asserted.
The UK government’s recent pronouncement reaffirming its stance on addressing violence against women and girls (VAWG) as a “national emergency” was met with approval by Askins. She stressed the importance of recognizing Middlesbrough as a community that genuinely cares for its vulnerable members. Overwhelmed with pride, Ms. Wade expressed, “I am deeply moved by the support shown today.”
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For more on this topic, read “Women’s march: ‘We don’t feel safe on our streets’.”
