TODAY is the Day of Memory for victims of “honour”-based abuse – and it would also have been the birthday of Shafilea Ahmed, the Warrington girl murdered by her parents in 2003.
Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner John Dwyer joined organisations across the country to remember the lives of victims and the courage of survivors.
‘Honour’-based abuse is a crime or incident committed to protect or defend the ‘honour’ of a family and community – and it is estimated there are 12 “honour”-based killings each year in the United Kingdom.
Charity group Karma Nirvana launched the Day of Memory in 2015 to remember the lives lost to this type of abuse.
Mr Dwyer said: “Today would have been Shafilea Ahmed’s 36th birthday, instead we commemorate her life, along with all other victims and survivors of honour-based violence.
“Nobody should fear living their life how they want to or be denied the freedoms that most us take for granted. Honour-based violence is often under-reported and can be referred to as a ‘hidden crime’ because of this.”
Mr Dwyer said anyone who believed they knew someone who was a victim of honour-based abuse, should look for warning signs such as:
•Acting withdrawn or upset
•Bruising or other unexplained physical injury
•Depression, self-harm or attempted suicide
•Unexplained absence or poor performance at work or school
•Their movements at home are strictly controlled
•Family rows
•Running away from home
•A family history of relatives going missing
Mr Dwyer added: “I want to take this opportunity to encourage anyone who is experiencing or witnessing honour-based abuse to speak out. There are a number of charities and support networks available, but I would remind the public. that 999 should always be the first contact if there is an immediate risk to life.”
“Protecting vulnerable and at-risk people is a priority of mine and I am committed to working alongside the Constabulary to ensure Cheshire Police continue to protect and serve our communities.”
Shafilia was murdered by her parents in 2003 after she refused a forced marriage.
The 17-year-old A level student’s body was discovered in the Lake District five months after she disappeared from the family home, but it took several years to bring her parents to justice.
To find out more about honour-based abuse please visit: https://www.cheshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/honour-based-abuse/honour-based-abuse/
For information on the Day of Memory please visit: https://karmanirvana.org.uk/campaigns/day-of-memory
