Stand with us to change the story for women in Brent

To mark 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the council is hosting events to honour those affected and reaffirm our commitment to keeping women in Brent safe and supported.

This international campaign, running from 25 November to 10 December, is led by the United Nations to raise awareness about gender-based violence.

This year, the council has organised three key events:

Remembrance vigil – Monday 25 November, 11am to 1pm at Brent Civic Centre

Join us to honour the lives lost this year due to gender-based violence. The vigil, held on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, invites everyone to unite against violence towards women and girls.

The event will include a moment of silence and an opportunity to make a pledge, promising to never commit, excuse, or remain silent about male violence against women. There will also be a range of stalls providing information on specialist support services for domestic abuse, sexual abuse and perpetrator intervention.

Survivors' exhibition – Monday 25 November to Friday 6 December at Brent Civic Centre

This exhibition, located behind the main staircase, highlights the strength and courage of survivors by showcasing their stories and creative pieces that reflect their experiences.

Through a powerful range of visual displays - art, photographs and personal testimonies, survivors share their journeys of resilience, healing, and empowerment, challenging societal stigma and encouraging open conversations around gender-based violence.

Public meeting - Wednesday 4 December, 6 to 8pm, at the Grand Hall in Brent Civic Centre

This community event invites all residents to share their views on safety in all spaces – public, online and in the home. A panel of speakers, including local police, gender violence experts, and community leaders, will lead discussions on topics like violence prevention, public safety, and support services for survivors.

There will also be a Q&A session to raise concerns and suggest ideas for safety improvements. Refreshments and light snacks will be provided.

Councillor Ishma Moeen, Cabinet Champion for Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, said: “The police have recently declared violence against women and girls a ‘national emergency,’ highlighting the deeply troubling and sad reality we face.

“It is a stark reminder that, as a community, we must continue to address this issue head-on. We have a zero-tolerance policy towards violence in all its forms and are dedicated to changing the narrative for women in Brent."

“We invite you to join us in honouring those we have lost this year due to gender-based violence as we work to make Brent a safer place for all women to live, work, and travel.”

A range of specialist support services are available in the borough for women and girls affected by violence.

Visit our safety support webpage for further information on local support services or how to report incidents of violence against women and girls.