Feminist collective highlights violence against women

A GROUP of feminists staged an “artistic intervention” by installing pink knitted “pussy hats” atop the railings surrounding Lerwick Town Hall at the weekend to commemorate the anniversary of last year’s Women’s March and highlight the issue of violence against women and children.

The anonymous group of Shetland-based feminists, who use the collective name 4me4her4us4them, crafted the small, pink pussy hats – a symbol of resistance used by the women’s march.

Placed alongside the hats are labels with the names of women and children who are survivors and victims of violence and abuse, alongside national information for support services and inspirational, uplifting quotes.

A spokeswoman for the 4me4her4us4them collective said: “We hope to delight the eye and raise awareness. We want Shetlanders to be aware of and part of a global movement that is taking place to promote women’s rights and end violence against women and children.”

The collective’s website features photographs of the installation and further information, and states: “We do not forget the women and children who have experienced and suffered violence. We honour them and celebrate their lives, courage, strength and resilience.”

Among the survivors and victims named in the installation are Zainab Ansari, Nadia Murad, Rose McGowen and Amina Ali Nkeki. Their stories can be found on the 4m4her4us4them website.

• 4me4her4us4them is also keen to highlight the work of support services Shetland Rape Crisis (phone 01595 745078 or 07570 062362 or email contact@shetlandrapecrisis.scot) and Shetland Women’s Aid (phone 01595 692070).