Derry seminar issues powerful call to action in fight to end violence against women and girls

A seminar last Wednesday at the Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry completed the Churches Trust’s programme on ‘Ending Violence Against Women and Girls’ which was funded by The Executive Office and supported by the Derry City and Strabane District Council. 

The event brought together community members, churches and local organisations with a shared aim - to take meaningful action to end violence against women and girls.

Building on a series of local workshops, the event created space for open conversation, reflection and a shared commitment to change. Throughout the project, participants explored just how complex the issue is, recognising that harmful behaviours can often begin subtly and become normalised if they are not challenged early.

One of the most powerful aspects of the workshops and seminar was the inclusion of lived experience. The stories shared were deeply moving and left a lasting impact on those in the room. There was a strong sense of gratitude towards Patricia and Cathy for their courage and honesty in sharing their experiences, helping to bring the reality of this issue to life in a way that statistics never could.

A standout moment came from 17-year-old Daniel, who spoke on behalf of the young people involved in the programme. He highlighted the growing influence of harmful online content shaping attitudes towards women and girls, particularly among young men.

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“It is vital that young people in our communities have access to workshops that challenge these harmful ideas and provide a more positive, respectful understanding of relationships,” he said.

Daniel also spoke about the pressures young men face to conform to outdated ideas of masculinity, and the importance of creating space for open, honest conversations. His message to young men is to challenge their friends and speak up when something isn’t right, resonated strongly across the room.

A clear message from the seminar was that this work is for everyone. Ending violence against women and girls cannot sit with women alone, it requires a collective effort across men, women and young people. As one key message reinforced throughout the day stated, “We cannot change culture without engaging those who shape it.”

Participants consistently highlighted the importance of starting early. Many reflected on the need to talk more openly with children and young people about respect, relationships and boundaries. There was a shared understanding that change begins “from the bottom up” - within our homes, families and everyday interactions.

The seminar also reinforced the importance of speaking up. Through powerful video clips and group discussions, participants reflected on how easy it can be to stay silent - whether through fear, uncertainty or not wanting to get involved. The message was clear: when we ignore behaviour, we allow it to continue.

Just as important was the creation of a safe and supportive space. Attendees spoke about how valuable it was to have time to talk, listen and learn from each other. Many left feeling more confident, more aware and more empowered to take action.

A key theme throughout the day was that everyone has a role to play. From calling out inappropriate language, to supporting someone in need, to challenging harmful norms, these small, everyday actions were recognised as the foundation for wider cultural change.

The seminar also highlighted the important role of churches and community groups in shaping attitudes and behaviours. With their reach across generations, these spaces are uniquely placed to promote respect, dignity and equality, and to engage men and boys as part of the solution.

The event closed with a simple but powerful call to action. Each participant was given a white ribbon and encouraged to take it home and start a conversation with a male in their life - a son, brother, father, partner or friend. After that conversation, they were invited to present the ribbon as a symbol of shared responsibility in ending violence against women and girls. Mary Holmes, CEO reminded attendees that while these conversations may feel uncomfortable at first, “the more we have them, the easier they become.”

Participants left with a renewed sense of purpose. As one attendee shared, “It has shown us how to begin to call things out and hopefully help eradicate this from our society in the future.”

The message from Derry is clear - change is already beginning. But it will take all of us, working together, and having the courage to speak up.