On 23 November 2024, we held the fourth Coventry Counts Dead Women Vigil in Smithford Way, where 111 pairs of shoes were carefully laid out in remembrance of the 111 UK women killed by men during the previous 12 months.
Throughout the day, the names of all 111 women were read out aloud every hour on the hour. Each reading was an act of remembrance, ensuring that every woman was acknowledged as an individual whose life mattered. Hearing their names spoken in the heart of Coventry was both powerful and deeply moving, reminding us that behind every statistic is a woman who was loved, valued and should still be walking amongst us today.
We were honoured this year to be joined by Simon Foster the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, whose attendance demonstrated the importance of working together to end male violence against women and girls.
During the vigil, we also read “Dead Women Count”, the thought-provoking poem written by Magi Gibson. Its words captured the grief, anger and determination that lie at the heart of our annual gathering, reminding us why we continue to stand together in remembrance and in hope for change.
During the vigil Nehanda performed uplifting and empowering songs that brought moments of strength, reflection and solidarity. Her music added a unforgettable dimension to the vigil, honouring the women we remembered while inspiring hope for a future free from violence against women and girls.
We were grateful for the support of Coventry City Councillors Kindy Sandhu and Rachael Lancaster, who joined us in reading the names of the women and spoke about the collective responsibility to end male violence against women and girls.
Each year our vigil grows stronger, bringing together individuals, community organisations and public representatives united by a shared commitment to remembrance and action.
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