HEBDEN ROYD TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC STATEMENT ON MISOGYNY

Recognising that there has been much media discussion, both nationally and internationally, relating to behaviour towards women Hebden Royd Town Council supported the following statement at the meeting of the full council held on 17th October 2018:

"We recognise that in all our work we act in accordance with the Equality Act 2010 which provides a legal framework to protect the rights of individuals and advance equality of opportunity for all. This is reflected in the Equal Opportunities Policy and standing orders which cover our activities. We further recognise that Hebden Royd has a diverse population who expect exemplary standards from their local town council. We therefore wish to make a public statement specifically relating to misogyny.

Misogyny is defined as 'Dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against women.' (Online Oxford dictionary accessed 27.8.2018). It can manifest itself in many ways, some more overt than others. This can include belittling or patronising of women, sexual objectification, assumption of male privilege, excluding women from gatherings as well as open discrimination and hostility.

Misogyny, in any form, is completely unacceptable. If any elected councillor, employee of the council or member of the public speaking at a council meeting uses language or behaves in a way which is perceived as being misogynist they will immediately be asked to stop the offending behaviour. Depending on the circumstances they may then be asked to apologise, retract the offending statement or be reported to the Town Clerk who will deal with the reported incident in accordance with our existing Disciplinary Policy."

For more information please contact Town Clerk Jason Boom on 01422 842181 or e-mail info@hebdenroydtowncouncil.gov.uk.

 

 

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