25,000 White Ribbons to Blanket UVa Graduation Ceremonies

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Updated: 6:30 PM May 17, 2010

In response to the tragic deaths of Yeardley Love and Morgan Harrington, University of Virginia students will distribute 25,000 white ribbons to graduates, faculty and families to wear at commencement Sunday as a sign of solidarity against violence.

Posted: 1:20 PM May 17, 2010
Reporter: Carlos Vergara
Email Address: carlos.vergara@newsplex.com

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May 17, 2010

University of Virginia students and faculty members are trying to teach a lesson on the heels of the death of Yeardley Love.

The White Ribbon Campaign will raise awareness about domestic abuse and violence in the community and will display the power of community organizing.

The movement is aimed at mobilizing, spreading awareness and encouraging people to participate in the fight against violence. Movement leaders will spread their message in a big way at this year's commencement ceremonies, when 25,000 white ribbons will be distributed as a show of solidarity.

A flyer will soon be distributed on grounds and the rest of community to make people aware of the movement.

The groups is encouraging people to participate in the following ways:

- Joining the International White Ribbon Campaign.
- Asking the university and community to join the campaign.
- Demanding more funding for violence services.
- Fighting for better domestic violence legislation in Virginia.
- Working to create a culture that rejects violence.

At a cost of $2,000 paid for by the university, the 25,000 ribbons should cover most of the estimated 4,000 graduates and 25,000 attendees at this year's commencement ceremonies.

For more information, visit the Facebook page aimed at the movement.

Latest Comments

Posted by: Jeff Location: Charlottesville on May 19, 2010 at 03:42 PM

First, I read that the ribbons were not paid for with tax dollars, they are out of other university funds which are set aside for student activities. Second, David and friends, people may be aware that partner violence exists, but few recognize the widespread nature or when it might be appropriate to do something. For instance, in Virginia, Ms. Love could only have gotten a restraining order against George Huguely if she felt threatened IF they were living together. Of course symbolism without monetary support is not that useful, but this event has not only raised the awareness of the UVA community but has gotten the story in the press--the campaign appears (whiteribboncampaignuva.com) to be pushing for supporters to not only donate to organizations to help people in need but maybe push for state/university policy changes to help in the future. To me, it is pretty amazing what a few students have organized and I am glad to see the community taking this issue seriously.

Posted by: John Location: Charlottesville on May 18, 2010 at 10:33 AM

David and Frank, the power of feelings can be vary strong, especially in dealing with serious issues such as the loss of life. Please do not simply dismiss this gesture by focusing on cost and petty politics. No problem is "solved" through a single action. The symbolism in the ribbon can be a great bonding an coping mechanism for the students and the community. I think the $2,000 is well spent in this case. I'm sorry you two have to be so negative about this issue. Not everything in the news needs to be attacked as part of a liberal agenda. Two young women are dead and you are nit picking about ribbons. Real classy guys.

Posted by: Frank Location: Charlottesville on May 18, 2010 at 08:37 AM

I don't understand how ribbons benefit anyone. Why not put the money and energy spent on Ms. Love's death to better use. Did Love have a civic interest or charity that could benefit from the attention?

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