I have chosen to shave my head to stand in solidarity with women in Africa who are forced to shave theirs. This is done to them under the pretence that HIV and AIDS is spread by women being “too attractive”. Just one example of how patriarchal societies control and subjugate women of all ages, from all countries and backgrounds. They suffer from domestic violence, sexual violence, child and forced marriage, and female genital mutilation. As if that wasn’t enough, these women survivors still face considerable barriers to accessing the legal system.

The statistics are stark, no country, no community, and no woman is completely free. In Zimbabwe, for example, 35 per cent of women have experienced emotional, physical or sexual violence from their husband or partner. In Ethiopia, 24 per cent of women have experienced physical violence, and 10 per cent have experienced sexual violence. In the UK, an average of two women a week are killed by a partner or former partner. This is a worldwide issue.

Womankind Worldwide is a global women’s rights organisation working in partnership with women’s movements to transform the lives of women and girls.

As a mother of two daughters, I want them to grow up in a society where both men and women are equal. At home, in the workplace, I believe that they should always feel safe and confident in a just environment, without having to question it.

So, on International Woman’s Day, 8th March, I shall be shaving my head. The hair will not be going to waste either, as I will be donating it to The Little Princesses Trust - another extremely worthy charity, that creates wigs for children who have lost their hair through illness and disease.

By funding me, however small my part is, your donations will help provide the crucial services so desperately needed and secure justice for women who have experienced violence.

I shall be filming the 'big shave’ and posting it for everyone who has kindly donated, to see/laugh at!

Thank you.

Etta, x

The vision is of a just world where the rights of all women are respected, valued and realised.