Brought to you in conjunction with Keele University's Athena SWAN Charter and to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

Abstract

Violence against women and girls remains persistent throughout the world. As we witness the countless atrocities committed against women, we must also acknowledge the many struggles for freedom and justice waged by women everywhere. However, despite the gains that have been made, many challenges remain unaddressed in the UK as elsewhere. Violence against women is an expression of patriarchal power and gender inequality entrenched at all levels of society, but it is not experienced by all women equally. In this talk, I want to reflect on the many silences and gaps in protection and justice that still endure. I explore the reasons why some women are not included in the wider public discourse, laws and policies on eliminating violence against women and girls; why institutional failings continue; and why, ultimately, there can be no end to violence and inequality without women rising up to demand freedom for all.

Biography

Pragna Patel is a founding member and director of Southall Black Sisters (SBS) - an advocacy and campaigning centre. Established in 1979 to meet the needs of black and minority women, the bulk of SBS’ work is directed at assisting women and children obtain effective protection and assert their fundamental human right in the face of gender-based violence and related problems. Over the years, Pragna has been centrally involved in some of SBS’ most important cases and campaigns on domestic violence, immigration and religious fundamentalism. She has also written extensively on race, gender and religion and on the need to address multiple and overlapping forms of discrimination that create injustice and inequality.

This lecture is free and all are welcome to attend. 

If you would like to attend, please register by no later than 12.00pm on the day of the lecture.  If you are joining us on line, instructions with further information will follow ahead of the lecture.  

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