Hundreds expected to march tonight in Plymouth for Trevi’s Reclaim the Night, protesting violence against women.
Trevi, a charity that helps women and children, organized the march again. They warn that violence is increasing; in 2023, Plymouth had 6,342 incidents, including domestic abuse and sexual offences. The city centre alone had 153 violent and sexual crimes, which account for over a third of all crimes there.
Today, banner workshops occurred at 4pm and 5pm, allowing people to make their own signs. Another drop-in session took place at 5pm as well.
Marchers met at Tavistock Place at 6:15pm where they heard a welcome and details about the march. The march itself began at 6:30pm.
The march planned to end at 7:30pm at Arts University Plymouth. Speakers shared empowering words and offered details on supporting the cause.
Trevi’s Mel Sevieri spoke about progress, noting that violence against women continues to rise. She emphasized the need for even better changes locally.
Reclaim the Night unites people against violence and supports survivors. It hopes for a safe future for everyone, where people can live without fear.
Trevi partners with Arts University Plymouth, and many helped make the event happen. People are encouraged to join and make their voices heard.
In 2024, people marched in Plymouth with Trevi. Reclaim the Night marches started long ago, in the 1970s in the UK. Women faced curfews due to violence at that time, and the “Yorkshire Ripper” murders also fueled the movement.
The marches demonstrate women’s frustration, as society often expects them to change their actions. Women want safe public spaces and believe safety should be for all, regardless of sex.
