Alkmaar
Breaks
The Silence
Alkmaar Breaks the Silence: taking action against sexual transgressive behavior
The topic is more relevant than ever. Sexual transgressive behavior and sexual violence occur daily—from sexist remarks to serious crimes. Women are by far the most affected. It’s a difficult subject to talk about, yet almost every woman has a story. Alkmaar breaks the silence in a unique way with the campaign Alkmaar Breaks the Silence, in which men from Alkmaar take the lead. The men in the campaign break the silence and speak out against violence against women. At the same time, they call on all men to do the same and help ensure a safe city for everyone.
The Urgency
The numbers speak for themselves: 50% of women have experienced sexual violence or sexually transgressive behavior (source: Centre for Sexual Violence). Even more disturbing: nearly every woman has encountered sexually charged, degrading, or sexist remarks during her life. Girls and young women between the ages of 12 and 24 are at greater risk. Yet only a small number of women speak out or file a report—often due to shame or fear, including fear of not being believed. This highlights the urgency not only to address the problem but also to raise awareness. It’s time for change.
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raadsleden
Presentatoren
Vader en broer
Muziekscene
Horeca-eigenaren
Haarlemmers
Culturele instellingen
Burgemeester & wethouders
SV Alliance '22
Jongerenwerkers
November 25, 2025: Campaign Launch
From November 25, 2025, the Alkmaar Breaks the Silence campaign will be visible throughout the Municipality of Alkmaar and online. Men from Alkmaar give the topic a face. Through posters, billboards, and social media, the message is spread: it’s time to address sexual transgressive behavior. The campaign is about drawing attention to the issue—specifically through men who choose to speak up.
Alkmaar Breaks the Silence encourages men to take responsibility, to speak out against inappropriate behavior, and not to shy away from uncomfortable conversations. Together, we can build a culture of respect.
A Call to Women: Share Your Story – Your Experience Matters
Have you been a victim of sexual transgressive behavior or violence? Would you like to share your story—anonymously, without judgment or pressure? Your experience can help break taboos and raise awareness.
As part of the Alkmaar Breaks the Silence campaign, we are collecting stories from women who have been through this. During the campaign period, well-known men from Alkmaar will bring these stories to life—through readings, poetry, or visual texts. You can submit your story anonymously using the button below. Stories will only be read by Marita Bruning (Diversity & Inclusion – Municipality of Alkmaar) and Daniële Streep (Director – Podium Victorie). If you give permission, your story will be assigned to a speaker.
Events During the Campaign: Women’s Stories Told by Men
Between November 25 and December 10, men will bring women’s stories to life in theaters, cafés, and sports clubs. By reading them aloud. By transforming them into music, spoken word, and art. By using their voices to break the silence.
One such event takes place on November 28 at Podium Victorie. This event is fully dedicated to the campaign. We will discuss the background of sexual violence, the importance of the campaign, and share stories from women.
Below is an overview of the campaign-related activities:
What Do We Want to Achieve?
This Campaign is Made Possible Thanks To:
Partners
Haarlem
The first “Break the Silence” campaign took place in Haarlem last spring. 31 men spoke out as allies. At 10 locations throughout the city, women’s stories were shared.
Curious what that looked like?
Contact for Support
If reading this information makes you feel the need to talk about your experiences or to speak with someone who can support and listen to you, please contact the Centre for Sexual Violence.
Project Contact
If you have questions, you can reach out to: alkmaarbreektdestilte@gmail.com