THE annual 16 Days of Activism Campaign returns to Penzance from November 25 to December 10.

This important global movement is coordinated locally by a grassroots group of survivors, supporters and activists, united in their commitment to end all violence against women and girls.

One in three women will experience violence in their lifetime, while every ten minutes, a woman or a girl is intentionally killed by their partner or family members somewhere in the world.

By joining thousands of organisations in 187 countries, 16 Days Penzance aims to raise awareness of the issues, share information, spark conversations, highlight the need for accountability and action, and bring about real change.

This year’s campaign launches on Tuesday November 25 with a ‘pay as you feel’ day at Trelya Community Cafe. A Solidarity Walk will set off from Wherrytown Skatepark at 5.30pm – bring banners, torches, lights and feel free to wear the campaign colour orange.

The walk culminates at St Mary’s Church in Chapel Street, with a candlelit vigil to honour UK women who have lost their lives in the past 12 months at the hands of someone they know. Hot soup will be available courtesy of Whole Again Communities.

A varied programme of events includes walks, talks, music, film, poetry and spoken word, personal safety sessions, wellbeing opportunities, a photography exhibition, dance classes, Manga workshops, coffee mornings, quizzes, a women’s open mic night and more.

The Vagina Monologues returns for four powerful performances (book early to avoid disappointment), while the wrap-up event, All In It Together: Dancefloor Celebration, takes place on Friday December 12 at The Union Ballroom.

Proceeds from all events will support West Cornwall Women’s Aid’s invaluable work with women experiencing domestic abuse and sexual violence, including a helpline, counselling, and refuge for women and children.

Details of all events are listed at www.16dayspenzance.co.uk.