Say her name: #SabinaNessa

We are deeply saddened to hear of another woman’s life cruelly taken in an act of brutal violence. Sabina Nessa was a teacher, a loved community member, a woman who deserved more.

In March, just before International Women’s Day, Sarah Everard was murdered by a police officer. It sent shockwaves across the nation, sparking calls to end violence against women and girls once and for all. Soul-searching by individuals and groups of men, policy makers and police officers kept the murder high in minds and headlines. The lack of attention being paid to Sabina’s murder in comparison lays bare the systemic racism and inequality that continues to exist in the UK. Where is this outrage now? Where is the media coverage?

Sabina’s life mattered. The lives of women from Black, Asian and racially minoritised backgrounds matter and deserve the same attention. They deserve to be remembered. They deserve justice. You will not kill women silently.

Annie, a SafeLives Pioneer, is a member of the Kidbrooke community and Vice Chair of the Community Forum. She said:

“I wanted to organise a vigil for Sabina Nessa because her life matters and people should be raising awareness about this. 

“When Sarah Everard was murdered the nation stood up. The energy for our Black and Asian women is different, and there hasn’t been enough outrage in the media for this murder. We all need to stand in solidarity for her so that people can come forward with information to the police to find the perpetrator.

“Our community is such a loving one. This is something we’re not used to, and I want to stand up against this violence. It is not welcome here.”

All victims of violence against women and girls deserve to be honoured and recognised. All victims deserve a tailored response that prevents violence against women and girls, instead of waiting until it is too late. We need a response to these crimes that listens to all the communities and individuals affected.

#SayHerName #SabinaNessa

If you would like to virtually join the vigil, please stand outside your house at 7pm on Friday 24 September with a candle.