Council backs 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based-Violence
Mount Alexander Shire Council is standing with the community to support 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global movement that calls for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and gender-diverse people.
The international initiative was established by the United Nations to raise awareness and encourage communities to take action to end gender-based violence.
Running from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (International Human Rights Day), this year’s regional theme is: ‘We can change the story Loddon Mallee. Choose respect’.
Council’s Director of Healthy Communities Lisa Knight, said the campaign is a chance for the community to come together and take a stand.
“This year, we’re inviting everyone to get involved, whether it’s through creative expression, conversation, or community events. It’s about choosing respect and showing that violence has no place in our shire,” she said.
“You can join a community walk against violence or come to a community gathering to share recipes, biscuits, cook with the CWA, crochet or knit and spark conversations about respect and resilience.
“The purpose is to support one another, share resources and make it known that the council does not tolerate gender-based violence in our community.”
Join the campaign by participating in one of the many activities on offer. Crochet an orange flower, join the community walk at the Botanical Gardens in December, go to a community gathering, submit a recipe to the cooking up respect and resilience community cookbook, or enjoy the nightly art installation at the Northern Arts Hotel.
You can also join an online event hosted by Women’s Health Loddon Mallee – Preventing Violence Beyond the Binary or a screening of Unanswered Calls: Shining a Light on the Silent Victims of Domestic and Family Violence at the Castlemaine Library.
For event details, visit www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/16daysactivism
Information and resources on gender-based violence will also be available in the foyer of the Castlemaine Library throughout the 16 Days of Activism campaign.
If you are in immediate danger, call 000. If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, you can ring: Safe Steps 1800 015 188, the Orange Door – Mallee 1800 512 359, Centre for Non-Violence 1800 884 292, Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800, Men’s Referral Service 1300 766 491, MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78, or Rainbow Door 1800 729 367.
