Foyle Women’s Aid is marking the 100^th celebration of women’s achievements by calling on men to take a stand against domestic and sexual abuse.

The Real Men campaign launched by Women’s Aid calls on men to join women in the fight against domestic violence by pledging to help to eliminate it.

“Domestic violence is an issue for everyone,” explained Foyle Women’s Aid director, Marie Brown.

“I think it is appropriate on a day set aside to honour the economic, social and political achievements of women, that we highlight the fact that across the world one in three women and girls is beaten or sexually abused in her lifetime”

“Women’s Aid, a feminist organisation set up by women to support women, is asking men to stand up against domestic violence. The “Real Man” campaign highlights the fact that real men don’t hit, abuse or control or hurt the ones they love,” she said.

Mrs Brown explained: “Although this is a new campaign, men have always supported the work of Foyle Women’s Aid. Fathers, sons and brothers have often referred family members to us for support and have supported women who needed our service.”

She added that in years gone by as Foyle Women’s Aid were trying to set up the service, local plumbers, electricians and other tradesmen volunteered their time and skills  freely.

“We have always been conscious that most men do not condone domestic violence, and indeed some are victims of it. We are now looking for men to speak out and challenge abusers,” she said.

Many well-known men have added their support to the Real Men campaign and Foyle Women’s Aid is now appealing to local men to take up the challenge. Men can sign the pledge by visiting www.realmancampaign.com.

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For more information contact Marie Brown on 07751514045