Reclaim These Streets – Merseyside Deputy Chief Constable statement

Deputy Chief Constable Serena Kennedy has released a statement following the postponement of last night’s Reclaim These Streets vigil in Liverpool.

“We have been working closely with the organisers of the Reclaim these Streets vigil, which was planned to be held in Liverpool tonight, and they have now agreed to hold the event virtually on social media in line with current legislation to prevent further spread of Coronavirus.

“We would like to thank the organisers for their co-operation and understanding in the last 24 hours.

“We completely understand, that following the murder of Sarah Everard, people across the UK wanted to hold the event in Sarah’s memory, whilst at the same time recognising the dangers faced by women.

“We will continue to work with women who are subjected to sexual harassment, or physical, or violent abuse, and our partners, so that we can identify offenders and make the streets safer for women who live and work in our communities.

“We as a society do need to take a strong stance against such attacks on women and we completely understand the concerns of those who support the Reclaim these Streets movement. Women should be empowered to live their lives without fear of sexual objectification, harassment, or physical and mental abuse.”