Leeds charity holds balloon release in memory of victims of honour abuse

Leeds-based Karma Nirvana led the event in Bradford in memory of local victim Shafilea Ahmed, who was murdered by her parents at the age of just 17.

The remembrance day was held in the run up to what would have been Shafilea’s 30th birthday. Jasvinder Sanghera, chief executive at Karma Nirvana, said: “These issues will only be addressed through partnership across multi-agencies including solicitors who have a key role in ensuring our victims access law and support to protect them.”

Jane Campbell, partner at law firm Makin Dixon, said: “We deal with cases like this every day and it is important to remember those victims not fortunate enough to escape.

“The balloon release is to remember those victims who lived with honour-based violence in silence and now have been silenced forever.”

The remembrance day is one of more than 20 events being held across the UK to raise awareness of forced marriage and honour-based abuse, on the lead up to the National Day of Memory later this month.

Jasvinder added: “The annual Day of Memory is an opportunity to play your part and take a stand in your community sending out a clear message that cultural acceptance does not mean accepting the unacceptable.”

Karma Nirvana provides support for people affected by forced marriage and honour-based abuse.