A lewd comment here. A catcall there. Violence against women and girls often begins with words.
A new campaign from the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, aims to speak directly to men and boys about how they can intervene and act as male allies to tackle violence against women.
The #HaveAWord campaign calls on men to “have a word” with themselves and their friends to challenge misogynistic behaviour and comments.
In 2021, a U.N. survey found 97 percent of young women in the UK have been sexually harassed in public spaces.
The campaign is being backed by sports clubs, with every London football club in the Premier League pledging their support. The video for the campaign will premiere on March 14 at half-time of the Crystal Palace vs Manchester City match at Selhurst Park, Crystal Palace’s home ground.
As part of the campaign, resources detailing practical steps men can take to become allies are now available on the City Hall website. They answer common questions such as: “What is misogyny?” “How do I call out problematic behaviour?” “Why is it important to call out sexist behaviour?” “What are common sexist phrases to challenge?”
Khan said in a statement that the UK is facing an epidemic of male violence against women and girls and that men need to “take a long hard look at ourselves.”
“As men, we need to be reflecting on the way we view, treat and talk about women,” he said. “That’s why this new campaign is about talking directly to men and boys to get the message across that words matter and that there’s a link between misogyny and violence.”
He added that he wants everyone to challenge sexism and misogyny because we share a collective responsibility to use our voices in the fight against violence against women and girls.
“Male violence against women and girls can start with words,” he continued. “If you see it happening, have a word with yourself, then your mates. It’s time we kick these rotten attitudes and behaviours out of our city and society for good.”
Men: it’s time to speak up.
