Newham’s Dockside area will be glowing orange for 16 days from 25 November until 10 December to promote an international campaign against violence against women.

Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz told the full council meeting that she herself had been a victim of hatred and online intimidation in the past, as she outlined a plan for 16 days of activism in the Borough as part of the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls.

During the 16 days of activism until UN Human Rights Day on 10 December, the Council will run a series of events promoting zero tolerance against domestic and sexual violence.

They have invited local residents to support the campaign by posting a picture of themselves online with the message ‘Never commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women’.

The Mayor called for zero tolerance of violence and hate crime against women, highlighting social media in particular. “It is essential that social media be held accountable. Currently males can post online anonymously,” she told the meeting.

She invited anyone taking part in activities to share their experiences over the coming days.

The Dockside area was previously illuminated on 24 September in tribute to Sabina Nessa, the young woman murdered in a South London park, and to highlight the issue of violence against women and girls.

Events include:

30 NOVEMBER

Poetry Against Violence

6:00pm – 8:00pm

Stratford Library, The Grove, Stratford, E15

4 DECEMBER

Newham One Stop Shop Drop-In

10:00am – 2:00pm

East Ham Library, Barking Road, East Ham E6

6 DECEMBER

Healthy Relationship Workshop

11:00am – 1:00pm

Custom House and Canning Town Community Neighbourhood Centre and Library, Rathbone Market, Barking Road, E16

Residents can just turn up at any of the events above.

Anyone experiencing domestic or sexual violence should contact the Newham One Stop Shop 24 hour line on 0845 451 2547 or visit www.newham.gov.uk/health-adult-social-care/domestic-violence-support for information on the range of support services available.

If you are in immediate danger due to domestic or sexual violence and need an emergency response, call 999.

For more information about any of the events, contact noreen.mukalazi@newham.gov.uk or call 07814 615 350.

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