‘Reclaim the Night’ march raises awareness of gender-based violence
A march through the streets of Kilmarnock took place this week to demand safer spaces for everyone and to call out harassment, violence and abusive behaviour against women and girls.
The annual ‘Reclaim the Night’ march, organised by the East Ayrshire Violence Against Women Partnership, marked the start of the 16 Days of Action campaign which aims to end gender-based fear and violence.
The march, which has now been running for several years, followed a route around Kilmarnock town centre, including a stop at the viaduct which was lit up in orange in honour of 16 Days of Action. It then ended at WG13 where the marchers got to heat up with a cup of tea while listening to guest speakers.
Councillor Jim McMahon, Cabinet Spokesperson for Housing, Transport and Communities, said: “We were delighted to see so many people join us in a show of community solidarity to raise awareness about the dangers to women and girls from gender-based violence. It’s important that we do all we can to promote a safer environment at night for women and girls to walk around in without fear.
“The march is just the start of a whole range of activities that are planned for the 16 Days of Action campaign which we are once again supporting with the aim of ending gender-based violence.”
Find out more about plans for 16 Days of Action: 16 days of action against gender-based violence · East Ayrshire Council