Ken Skates AM supports campaigns to end gender violence and homophobic bullying

Clwyd South Assembly Member Ken Skates has voiced his support for campaigns to end violence against women and tackle homophobic abuse and bullying.

The annual 16 Days of Activism drive starts on Tuesday (November 25), International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and ends on Human Rights Day, December 10.

The cross-continent project hopes to raise awareness about gender-based violence at local, national, regional and international level.

Labour AM Mr Skates said: “Violence against women and girls continues in every country and culture across the world and has devastating effects on victims and their families. We cannot afford to sit back and let it happen – that’s why raising awareness is so important.”

In addition, Mr Skates recently met representatives of gay and bisexual rights charity Stonewall Cymru at the Senedd in Cardiff, and signed a pledge in support of its ‘Don’t be a Bystander’ campaign.

He said: “This is an incredibly important initiative which urges people to stand up to or report such homophobic abuse and bullying instead of turning a blind eye to an issue we must take very seriously. We all have a responsibility to make Wales a country where everyone can be themselves.”