#IfLoveHurts: New White Ribbon Day Film Raises Male Violence Awareness
Sunday 25th November marks White Ribbon Day – The UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
To raise awareness, White Ribbon UK are asking people to wear a white ribbon and pledge never to commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women.
This year the campaign is focusing on domestic abuse, saying “If love hurts, it’s not love”. 2 women a week are killed by a current or former partner, and an overwhelming majority of domestic abuse crimes are committed by men.
A short film has been developed to mark White Ribbon Day. Director Peter Giblin says: “The film explores the emotional aspect of domestic abuse, and how the abuse takes place within a context of love. Victims often love their abuser, as well as fear them, so much so they don’t even realise they’re in an abusive relationship. It can take up to eight abuses before they feel able to do something concrete about it. This was the guiding insigh, and why I chose to end it with ‘If love hurts, it’s not love’.”
‘If Love Hurts’ was written and directed by Peter Giblin, and will be launched on November 1st, and screened at the House of Commons on 28th November to an audience of MPs and campaigners.
Anthea Sully, Chief Executive at White Ribbon UK said, “For real change to occur, men must understand the systems in place that give rise to toxic masculinity and male violence towards women. This film powerfully shows the impact of abuse in all its forms in relationships. White Ribbon UK asks men to take responsibility in ending male violence against women by being active bystanders, calling out abuse and sexism among their peers; talking openly about the male cultures that can lead to abuse and why men must take a stand against them”.
Be part of the conversation: #IfLoveHurts
Pledge never to commit, excuse or remain silent about male violence against women at www.whiteribbon.org.uk and find out how you can do more to raise awareness in your community.
