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TODAY, we ask you to join us to stand up, speak out and act to prevent men’s violence against women and children.
Gender based violence is one of the greatest human rights abuses happening in this country - indeed, globally.
While we have seen increased community conversation and some commitment from all levels of government to address this violent epidemic, men's violence towards women and girls continues at alarming rates.
Today, being the International Day for the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Children and White Ribbon Day, is a reminder to all of us that we have much work to do.
While there is outstanding work being done in violence prevention fields and by services supporting women and children leaving violent situations, as a community we need to be looking at what we are doing that contributes to gender inequality that results in violence that takes many forms.
This is not a women's issue, it is not a men's issue. It is a whole of society issue that needs a commitment from every one of us to effect much-needed change.,
No section of the community is immune to this gender violence - it affects all demographics and cultures.
It affects women and girls in many ways, not always physically but always about power and control.
To say we have the power to change this sounds simplistic, but the reality is violence is preventable.
And it starts with every one of us taking a stand against behaviours that contribute to gender based violence.
So today, rather than dismiss the issue as something that doesn't happen in your world, acknowledge that it does - and spend a few moments reading about why.
Be open to listening to the stories of women and understanding, to reflecting on choices you make that contribute to gender inequality and thinking about how you respond to sexist jokes and comments.
Then think about what you do to allow such attitudes to continue. Don’t be a bystander – stand up, speak out and act.
And maybe join us to walk from Bendigo Town Hall today as a show of support and strength.
– NICOLE FERRIE