White Ribbon Choir performs at EMR stations to raise awareness of violence against women
- Choir brings powerful performances to EMR stations during White Ribbon’s 16 Days of Activism
- Events encourage customers to speak up, challenge harmful behaviour, and support women’s safety
A special choir performed on Friday 28 November at a number of stations across East Midlands Railway’s (EMR) network to raise awareness of violence against women.
The Fun Chorus Choir, from Nottingham, performed at Sheffield, Nottingham, and Lincoln railway stations, alongside EMR’s Crime & Security team, to support the White Ribbon Campaign.
White Ribbon Day, which took place on Tuesday 25 November, marked the start of the 16 Days of activism against gender-based violence.
EMR’s is supporting events across the EMR network throughout the 16 days.
The White Ribbon Campaign is a call to action for men everywhere to make the White Ribbon Promise: to never commit, excuse, or stay silent about violence against women, and to actively challenge the attitude.
EMR, which is part of Transport UK, has recently been awarded White Ribbon UK accreditation for its commitment to working towards ending violence against women and girls.
To gain accreditation, EMR has demonstrated its commitment to developing and delivering a transformative action plan over the next three years. This will involve recruiting champions and ambassadors throughout its workforce.
Danielle Clarke, Community Safeguarding and Security Manager at EMR, said: “Working with the White Ribbon Choir has been a powerful way to connect with our communities and spark conversations about a subject that affects far too many women.
“Their performances brought people together, created moments of reflection, and helped us share vital safeguarding information in a supportive and engaging way.
“We want everyone who travels with us to feel safe, and these events are an important reminder that we all have a part to play in challenging harmful behaviours and protecting those at risk.”
Philippa Cresswell, Customer Experience Director for EMR, said: “Since receiving White Ribbon accreditation for EMR earlier this year, we have committed to encouraging our staff to be positive role models.
“Across the railway network, tens of thousands of people travel every day. Abuse can be hidden in plain sight, which is why we all share a responsibility to recognise the signs and safeguard our customers and colleagues from harm. It is also our duty to speak up for women at work, at home, and within our communities, and to do everything we can to help end violence against women and girls.”
Anna, from the Fun Chorus Choir, said: “Performing as part of the White Ribbon Campaign is incredibly important to us. Music has the power to bring people together and open up conversations that can make a real difference.
“We’re proud to stand alongside EMR in raising awareness and encouraging everyone to take a stand against violence towards women and girls.”