White ribbons roll out to symbolise end to violence

Ten thousand white ribbons have been delivered to stations around New Zealand in preparation for Police supporting White Ribbon Day on 25 November.

White Ribbon Day is the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Commissioner Howard Broad is encouraging all police staff to wear the ribbon for the week leading up to and including 25 November.

“We know that in the vast majority of family violence events Police attend, women are the primary victims. This fact is reflected in the deaths and injuries inflicted on women and children of New Zealand,” Howard says.

“It’s important we show the New Zealand public that we acknowledge this violence as unacceptable.”

Howard says Police are responsible for helping ensure victim and child safety, offender accountability and to collaborate effectively with agencies which can help achieve this.

He has asked Police staff to wear the ribbon in the knowledge they are part of the solution, not only for women, but for children and men who suffer violence in our communities.

Many communities have planned events during the week leading up to White Ribbon Day.

“I support and encourage all Police staff to participate in these events."