Community rallies to stop violence against women
WHITE RIBBON DAY
MOSSMAN will once again lead one of the biggest community events in regional Queensland later this month for White Ribbon Day.
A host of Douglas community groups, agencies and services have once again worked together to organise an event to help raise awareness and funds to support White Ribbon Australia’s work to end men’s violence against women.
Funds raised will help support primary prevention initiatives and the annual campaign which White Ribbon Australia seeks to change the attitudes and behaviours that lead to and perpetuate men's violence against women.
On Friday 25 November at 5:30pm the Douglas community is encouraged to show their support for stopping violence against women by participating in the White Ribbon Day Twilight Walk in Mossman. Those participating are asked to wear white or their relevant uniform should they be representing their local business, organisation, school or sporting group.
Participants are asked to congregate in the Douglas Shire Council car park in Front Street by 5:15pm 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.
“In 2015 there were 80 women killed in Australia due to violence,” Mayor Julia Leu said.
“This terrible statistic is totally unacceptable. I am proud to say that our community of Douglas has rallied together to make a commitment and public statement in bring to an end to any form of abuse or violence committed against women.
“It is heartening to see the support and contributions being given by many local businesses and community organisations and services for this important event, the commitment and enthusiasm of the organising committee has been amazing.
“To support their hard work and efforts I would very much like to encourage as many Douglas residents, organisations, businesses and sporting groups to participate in the walk on Friday, 25 November. Each and every one of us as a community member has the ability to show women who are at threat, are victims or survivors of violence that they are not alone.”
Leu said this was a chance for the community to send a strong message to all perpetrators that violent and abusive behaviour toward women is not tolerated or acceptable in any form.
The White Ribbon event will be immediately followed by an outdoor family-friendly movie hosted by the Mossman Youth Service.
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.
