World events add to White Ribbon cause

As Americans protest the election of a leader who boasted about grabbing women by their genitals, the region prepares for White Ribbon Day.

“It is probably more important than ever in our communities that we are able to articulate that it is gender equity that prevents violence against women,” said Women’s Health Loddon Mallee executive officer Tricia Currie.

“We need to change the story.”

White Ribbon Day, November 25, aims to prevent men’s violence against women. 

It falls on the same date as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the start of the United Nations’ 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.

City of Greater Bendigo mayor-elect Margaret O’Rourke encouraged all residents, but especially men, to show their support by participating in Bendigo Walks Against Violence.

The event, staged in the city’s streets and public spaces, will be one of many taking place throughout Australia on White Ribbon Day.

“The statistics around domestic violence are shocking: on average, one woman is killed every week as a result of intimate partner violence, while domestic violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness for women and their children,” Ms O’Rourke said.

“One in three women has experienced physical and/or sexual violence perpetrated by someone known to them.

“This is unacceptable. It’s important that men in our community take the lead on this issue and help change attitudes towards violence and promote respectful relationships.”

Ms Currie said its was important gender equity was seen as everybody’s business.

Gender inequality underpins violence against women, with men the main perpetrators.

Some Bendigo cafes are using White Ribbon Day sleeves on their takeaway cups, to raise awareness for the campaign.

Nadine Parry, the co-owner of Pall Mall Cafe, jumped at the opportunity to spread the message.

“Knowing how important White Ribbon Day is, we’re only too happy to get involved,” she said.

Violence is the leading contributor to death, disability and illness of women aged 15 to 44 years.

Bendigo Walks Against Violence will take a new route this year, as the event gains momentum in the community.

The walk will start at noon on November 25 at Ulumbarra Theatre and traverse Park Road to Bridge Street, near Rosalind Park.

It will continue on to Pall Mall, towards the Alexandra Fountain; travelling up Mitchell Street to Hargreaves Mall, and finish at the Bendigo Library Gardens, where there will be a free barbecue and entertainment. 

Between 700 and 800 people participated in last year’s walk.

The City of Greater Bendigo expects this year’s event to be even bigger. 

Author J M Yates and psychotherapist Hugh Martin will open the event by addressing the crowd. 

If you are experiencing violence, phone 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.