Stand up, speak out against domestic violence with White Ribbon Twilight Walk
Published Tuesday 17 November 2015
The Douglas Shire community will stand up and speak out against domestic violence by participating in the inaugural White Ribbon Twilight Walk in Mossman on 25 November.
Douglas community agencies and services have worked together to organise the event to help raise awareness and much-needed funds to support White Ribbon, Australia’s work to end men’s violence against women.
All funds raised will support primary prevention initiatives in schools, workplaces and the broader community.
Those participating in the White Ribbon Day Twilight Walk along Front St from 5.30pm on Wednesday 25 November are asked to wear white or their relevant uniforms should they be representing their local business, organisation, school or sporting group.
Mayor Julia Leu said the twilight walk served as a statement from the community that violence against women is unacceptable.
“Violence against women is never a private issue,” Mayor Leu said.
“We are holding this event to help break the silence around violence, to raise awareness of the issue as well as funds to support work to bring violence against women to an end.
“We want people to know that violence against women is unacceptable, it is never the victim’s fault, help is always available and if you see something you should definitely say something.
“People need to know that they can make a difference; bringing an end to men’s violence against women will take a whole of community approach.
“It has been fantastic to hear of the support being given by many local businesses and organisations for this event. Douglas residents, organisations and sporting groups are strongly encouraged to join the walk on the 25 November,” said the Mayor.
Mayor Leu said the frightening statistics related to domestic violence demonstrated it is an issue for everyone in the community.
“Violence against women is at epidemic proportions. Devastatingly, over 12 months, on average, one woman is killed every week in Australia as a result of intimate partner violence,” Mayor Leu said.
“I am proud that our local Douglas community are making a strong stand against this horrible issue.”
“Murder is at the pointy end of a broad spectrum of violence against women - a spectrum that encompasses financial, verbal, emotional, psychological, physical and sexual abuse, as well as workplace harassment which all form part of a devastating cycle of violence.
“And the women lost are not just statistics – they are wives, mothers, daughters, granddaughters, sisters, aunts, nieces, friends and colleagues. Most importantly, they are people, and the impact of the violence perpetrated against them is widespread and long-standing.”
White Ribbon Twilight Walk participants are asked to congregate in the Douglas Shire Council car park in Front Street by 5.15pm on Wednesday 25 November for a 5.30pm departure.
The local Police Services will escort the walkers along Front Street to St David’s Church located in Foxton Avenue. Once at the Church grounds participants will hear from guest speakers, obtain relevant information, and enjoy some light entertainment and refreshments.
If you are experiencing violence or suspect someone else is, please contact 1800 RESPECT for advice and support. In an emergency, call the police on 000.
