Hollie Smith talks about her new single and video 'Please', which she has written for all people affected by domestic violence, to inspire, give strength and support those in need.

Hollie has generously donated this song to the 2016 White Ribbon Trust campaign. 

"I am humbled to be involved in this years White Ribbon campaign and I hope that my involvement with the song and imagery we have created can, in some small way, contribute and raise awareness to this issue that I feel New Zealand needs to urgently address and prioritise. 

Domestic violence in New Zealand is far too prevalent in our everyday news headlines and statistics, but more dangerously it is frequently happening unreported and behind closed doors. 

I feel there is an attitude of “If I can’t see it, it doesn’t affect me”. Well I believe it does. It affects our communities, our children and the foundations of our culture, identity and future. 

Emotional manipulation and violence is not confined to the weak or the poor and it is beyond race and religion. It is time for all of Aotearoa to come together to find a way to resolve this crisis and start creating an environment that nurtures and encourages healthy, respectful relationships.

We have to stop just waiting for another headline to shock us. It is about taking action and understanding that this is happening everyday in far too many homes. It is about trying to find a solution instead of waiting for the punishment. It is about breaking the cycle and supporting those in need. It is about empowering our children so that they know how to love and how to be loved. 

I hope that the lyrics I have written helps to inspire and encourage strength and support for those who are in situations they feel are beyond their control, whether that be to the victim of violence or the person who knows no other alternative."

'PLEASE' by Hollie Smith

We all fighting a battle that no one else can see

We all have our own reason, excuses we can't release

We all need a haven, when all there is, is rain

We all need forgiveness to have our slates wiped clean

I wish I that I could tell you

I wish that you could hear

Oh I’m never gonna hurt you, always gonna be here

Never gonna turn my back

I wish that you could listen

Cause I know that you are strong

Oh I’m never gonna hurt you, always gonna be here

Know that you are not alone. Please

Only hold the burden, inherit all the shame

Refusing there’s a saviour, can’t let go of the blame

If the cycles keep on turning, you need to break free the chains

The scars may never leave you but there’s a spirit to reclaim

I wish I that I could tell you

I wish that you could hear

Oh I’m never gonna hurt you, always gonna be here

Never gonna turn my back

I wish that you could listen

Cause I know that you are strong

Oh I’m never gonna hurt you, always gonna be here

Know that you are not alone. Please

Where we don’t, cast any stone

No longer, know you’re alone

Holding feet to the fire, don’t walk this alone

You can change your fate