Violence Against Women

Dear Londoners,

I want to take this opportunity to address an incident you may have seen in the news that occurred in the north of our city this past week, where hateful and bigoted graffiti inciting violence against women appeared on an overpass. Let me be absolutely clear: there is no place in London for hatred, intolerance, or attempts to intimidate and marginalize members of our community. This graffiti does not reflect who we are as a city. London is, and must always be, a place that welcomes and respects people of all genders, backgrounds, and identities, and it's our duty to foster that and grow together.

At the City of London, we have taken important steps in this direction. Through our pillar "Safe London for Women, Girls, Gender-Diverse and Trans People" in the Strategic Plan, and through my declaration of intimate partner violence as an epidemic, we have committed to making London a safer and more equitable city. But we also recognize that this is ongoing work that must continue, persevere, and be supported by each and every one of us who believes in a better, safer London for all. The path to equality and safety is long, and progress demands persistence, focus, and endurance.

I will continue to work with organizations and partners across our community to ensure that we are not only moving forward, but also resisting any attempts to move backward.

To the survivors and victims of violence: know that this city stands with you. To those who seek to spread hate or division: know that you will not succeed. The community we have built in London is and always will be stronger than hate. Together we will continue building a city that protects, respects, and uplifts every single person.

Sincerely,
– Mayor Josh Morgan