The Football Association of Wales (FAW) is dedicating the Wales v Iceland match on 19th November 2024 to White Ribbon.
Ahead of and during the match, Cymru staff and players will demonstrate their support for White Ribbon, while fans will be encouraged to make the White Ribbon Promise, “to never use, excuse, or remain silent about men’s violence against women”.
Through its support of the White Ribbon campaign, the FAW aims to raise awareness of the urgent need for men to lead the change in tackling harmful attitudes and behaviours. By promoting the message “It Starts with Men”, the FAW is calling on men to be active allies in creating a safer, more equal society.
White Ribbon UK CEO, Anthea Sully, said: “Football has the power to unite people and influence positive change, both on and off the pitch. By engaging men as allies on White Ribbon Day, we can challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours in our communities. It’s not enough to simply say we stand against violence – real change happens when we take action, whether it’s calling out disrespectful behaviour in the stands or supporting a friend. Every fan, every player and every coach can make a difference in building a culture where women and girls feel safe and respected.”
FAW Chief Executive Officer, Noel Mooney, said: “At the Football Association of Wales, we are committed to creating a culture of equality and respect. This year’s White Ribbon campaign, ‘It Starts with Men,’ is a powerful reminder that men have a key role to play in challenging the attitudes and behaviours that lead to violence against women. By dedicating this match to White Ribbon, we are encouraging everyone, to step up, reflect, and take action to ensure football and society are safe and inclusive spaces for all.”
Cymru players Ben Davies, David Brooks and Joe Morrell starred in an exclusive ‘Sound’ campaign video, where they discussed the importance of men holding honest conversations with one another about healthy relationships and small actions they can take to help women feel safer.
In the Sound video, the players reflected on their own experiences, such as navigating societal pressures, supporting partners during challenging times, and how they could call out harmful behaviours among peers if it were to arise.
White Ribbon is the UK’s leading charity engaging men and boys to end violence against women and girls. White Ribbon Day, 25th November, is observed globally. The White Ribbon is the internationally recognised symbol of ending violence against women.
For more information about White Ribbon UK, visit: www.whiteribbon.org.uk/about-us
To learn more about White Ribbon Day 2024, visit: www.whiteribbon.org.uk/wrd24
Make the White Ribbon Promise: www.whiteribbon.org.uk/promise
