On Friday, 28 November, Bedford Borough Council is joining the #TooManyNames event as part of the 16 Days of Action against Gender-based Violence campaign.
This powerful initiative honours the women who lost their lives to male violence in the UK over the past year and strengthens community resolve to end violence against women and girls.
In Bedford, the event will take place in the Harpur Centre at 10.30am – 11am, with simultaneous action in Luton and Dunstable.
Supporters and local residents are invited to attend, sign a pledge to “never commit, excuse, or remain silent about Violence Against Women and Girls,”.
In Bedford, there will also be an opportunity to join in with a public consultation on the Domestic Abuse Strategy for Bedford Borough, which will shape services for survivors over the next five years.
16 Days campaign
Gender-based violence (GBV) is a form of hate crime primarily targeting women and girls due to their gender. The 16 Days campaign runs annually from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day.
This global movement is supported by the United Nations Secretary-General’s ‘UNITE by 2030’ campaign to end violence against women.
Councillor Jane Walker – (Conservative, Clapham ward) Portfolio Holder for Valuing Families: Children’s Services, said, “Every name we remember is a call to action.
“#TooManyNames is more than a commemoration – it’s a commitment from Bedfordshire communities that violence against women and girls will never be tolerated. We invite everyone to join us in standing up, speaking out, and helping shape a safer future for all.”
Community groups, residents, and organisations across Bedfordshire are encouraged to attend this free event. There will be a minute of silence following the #TooManyNames tribute, and support information will be available for those affected by gender violence.
No booking is required.
Bedford Domestic Abuse Partnership (BDAP) provides information and support resources for anyone affected by domestic abuse, including gender violence, or is seeking guidance on where to get help.
