Five “Reclaim the Night” events will be taking place tonight to show solidarity with women and girls across Yorkshire

Reclaim the Night is a movement that began in Leeds in 1977 with the aim to demand that women and girls should be able to move around safely at night, and ensure safer streets for everybody. 

The events will take place in Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, Calderdale, and Kirklees tonight, 26th October. 

This has been timed to coincide with the end of British Summer Time (BST) and the clocks going back, meaning darker nights and more women reporting they feel unsafe. 

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said: “It’s unacceptable that women and girls feel they must change their behaviour or stay indoors when the nights draw in. 

“Last year, hundreds of us stood together to say, ‘enough is enough’ and demand better for women across West Yorkshire. 

“This year, we’re holding events in each district on the same day, and I encourage everyone to join us, as we Reclaim the Night and make our region a safer, fairer place for all.” 

@mayorofwy As the clocks go back, we’re stepping forward to demand a safer, fairer West Yorkshire for everyone. Join us on 26 October to #ReclaimTheNight, as we send a clear message: violence against women and girls has no place here. Find your nearest event in my link in bio. #womenempowerwomen #westyorkshire #feministiktok ♬ original sound – Tracy Brabin

The events will begin this afternoon and run through into the early evening. 

Leeds: Speeches will begin outside Leeds Art Gallery from 5.30pm before a walk through the city centre starting at 6pm. 

Bradford: The event starts at 4:30pm at the Carlton Prayer Room, Bradford University, followed by a walk to Centenary Square for speeches and poetry. It will end by returning to the University with a performance from Soundproofbox. 

Wakefield: Starting at 12pm with a banner making workshop at Wakefield Exchange, there will then be a vigil held at 5pm. 

Calderdale: Join partners in conversation at Shibden park from 3pm to 5.30pm, then a walk will take place from 4.30pm through the historic grounds. 

Kirklees: At Greenhead Park there will be family friendly activities and stalls with support services and information from 2pm to 5pm/ A walk around the park will start at 3.45pm.