Marathon Event Highlights Women’s Winter Safety Concerns

A marathon event, termed “race the dark,” was conducted on Saturday to elevate awareness regarding the precautions women undertake to ensure their safety while exercising during the winter period. Anthea Sully, chief executive of the White Ribbon campaign group, is participating in a run from Leeds to Saltaire and back, alongside Jude Roberts, Leeds City Council’s safeguarding manager. The two individuals had planned to commence their journey at dawn on Friday and conclude it before dusk as part of the challenge. Ms. Sully commented: “It should not be for women to carry the burden of keeping themselves safe.” White Ribbon functions as an international initiative advocating for the prevention and eradication of violence against women and girls. The council holds accreditation as a White Ribbon organization, indicating its continuous dedication to the campaign. The charity organizes White Ribbon Day, scheduled for Monday, which is subsequently followed by “16 days of activism.” The race begins at the Ribbons sculpture near Quarry Hill—which bears the names of hundreds of Leeds women—and aims to conclude before dusk at Laynes cafe, situated close to Leeds train station. On Saturday, the campaign will receive promotion during the Woodhouse Moor parkrun event. “White Ribbon calls for men to show allyship to women, to think through how their behaviour and actions can make a positive difference to the issues women face,” Ms. Sully stated. Councillor Mary Harland, representing Leeds City Council, affirmed: “We need to be absolutely clear that any form of violence is not accepted in Leeds.“It’s a great opportunity for people to get involved and show their support for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.” Audiences can access highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, view the most recent episode of Look North, or submit potential news stories for consideration. This material is copyrighted by BBC in 2024, with all rights reserved. The BBC does not assume responsibility for the content of external websites. Further details on its approach to external linking are available.