Aylesbury Hockey Club empowering action to support White Ribbon Day 2025
Aylesbury HC's Women's and Men's Captains got together for a quick photoshoot to show their support for White Ribbon UK in readiness for the Aylesbury Ducks' recognition of WRD 2025.
This year, the red & blacks will be setting aside this Saturday to recognise & support White Ribbon Day: it'll be a game day for all their Club members to remember, reflect, listen and act for change to stop violence against women and girls before it starts.
The Clubs Men’s & Women’s Captains will wear a WRD Armband and pledge; never to use, excuse or remain silent about men’s violence against women, together with getting a team photo on the day to show solidarity across all teams for this cause. The Ducks will also speak with their opposition on the day to let them know why they are wearing a White Ribbon armband and the importance of showing awareness and support.
Aylesbury HC members were shocked to find out that a woman is killed by a man in the UK on average every three days, that Police have recorded nearly 1.5million domestic abuse-related crimes and incidents*, and Violence Against Women & Girls is considered a 'National Emergency' by the National Police Chiefs' Council with approx. 4million women/girls experiencing domestic abuse, 1.4 million experiencing stalking, and 1million experiencing sexual assault*.
Aylesbury Hockey Club wants these stats to change so are proudly raising awareness and empowering action and it's starting with the Clubs Captains and the message will continue filtering down to all their players and Club members from this Saturday and always.
This year's White Ribbon Day theme is: 'We Speak Up'
'We Speak Up' for change! Letting sexism slide puts women and girls at risk. Sexist jokes, catcalling, staring, and comments might seem harmless, but they are serious because they can lead to violence and abuse. Aylesbury Hockey Club is keen to 'Speak Up' and help create a world where everyone is safe, equal and respected, because every time we ignore something that doesn’t feel right, we miss a chance to set a better example and the mighty Aylesbury Ducks want to ensure that all their women and girls feel supported, safe and respected, both on and off the pitch.
*The actual number of victims is likely much higher than official figures suggest, as many incidents, especially sexual violence and harassment, go unreported. Above details provided by: Office of National Statistics - England and Wales, YE March 2025