A fresh initiative aimed at combatting disrespectful and inappropriate treatment of women and girls has been brought into force across North Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire. The ‘Just Don’t’ campaign, led by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for Humberside, intends to recruit males of all ages to help prevent abuse. The Commissioner, Jonathan Evison, stressed the need to tackle not only blatant physical violence but also harmful jokes and general lack of respect. “It’s crucial for men to challenge harmful banter, address disrespect and intervene when witnessing abuse,” he pronounced.
The newly introduced campaign will roll out posters in local pubs, schools, and restaurants presenting phrases such as ‘I only texted her ten times’ or ‘I was merely looking at her’. Leo Hammond, Deputy PCC, pointed out that although most young men and boys comprehend acceptable behaviour, the aim of the campaign is to educate those who don’t. He drew attention to the fact that 86% of women and girls have experienced harassment at some stage in their lives, meaning that initiatives like this one are desperately needed. Alongside posters, the campaign will deploy social media videos to disseminate its message across the wider region.
This piece is based on original reporting from www.bbc.com, and further adaptation has been made by The Lincoln Post.
