New campaign to tackle street harassment in Jersey

A new initiative to combat street harassment and its impact has been launched in Jersey as part of the government’s ongoing work to address Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).

The It's Not Okay campaign aims to challenge harmful behaviours and attitudes, particularly among young men and boys aged 16-25.

This latest effort builds on the work of the VAWG Taskforce, established in October 2022 under former Home Affairs Minister Deputy Helen Miles, to address violence and aggression disproportionately affecting women and girls.

The campaign includes online content, posters, stickers and an animated video designed to raise awareness about street harassment.

Anonymous comments from women and girls who participated in the Taskforce’s 2022 research are featured across campaign materials.

Posters and stickers are being distributed to secondary schools, youth services, and other organisations working with young people.

The campaign is informed by research conducted by the VAWG Taskforce, including a public call for evidence.

Islanders shared their experiences through a survey and a safety heatmap pinpointing areas where they felt unsafe.

Additional research included targeted input from professionals, young people, and victim-survivors, providing a comprehensive picture of the issue in Jersey.

Home Affairs Minister Deputy Mary Le Hegarat highlighted the importance of addressing language and behaviour as part of the solution.

"Sexist and misogynistic language creates an environment where violence against women and girls is more likely to occur," she said.

"This campaign challenges those behaviours and asks people to reflect on the consequences of their words and actions.

"The voices of women and girls featured in this campaign are powerful and impactful.

"I hope this initiative inspires islanders to take a stand, support the cause, and report incidents to the police when something isn't right."

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