White Ribbon Day, which coincides with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on the 25th of November each year, sees councils across Australia contributing to events that encourage community commitment to ending violence against women.
This year, Randwick City Council joined forces with the NSW Police to encourage men and boys to take part in Sydney’s White Ribbon Walk, which took place on the 23rd November, to raise funds for the cause.
Randwick City Mayor Tony Bowen said that the fact that one in three Australian women over the age of 15 have reported experiencing physical or sexual violence is a horrifying statistic.
“Violence against women is never acceptable and it’s time for Australian men to stand up and say enough is enough!” said Mayor Bowen. “As a father of two boys, these figures really shock me.”
Starting at High Cross Park, Randwick and ending at Coogee Beach, the day concluded with walkers taking the oath that is a cornerstone of the White Ribbon campaign: “I swear never to commit violence against women, never to excuse violence against women, and never to remain silent about violence against women. This is my oath.”
Eastern Beaches Local Area Commander, Detective Superintendent Gavin Dengate noted that swearing the oath was a key part of Sydney’s White Ribbon Walk.
“Police regularly deal with issues of domestic violence and violence against women, and it is an issue police take very seriously,” said Superintendent Dengate.
“Men can help play a critical role in helping stop violence against women. Taking part in Sydney’s White Ribbon Walk, speaking the oath and wearing white is a symbol of a commitment to standing up for the women in your life and saying that it’s never okay.
“There is no excuse for violence against women or any form of domestic violence, ever.”
Community-wide support required
Councils have an important role to play in addressing the issues highlighted by White Ribbon Day and the campaign as a whole.
Greater Dandenong Council Mayor, Councillor Angela Long, in urging residents to join the campaign, said, “Violence affects women in all segments of the community, from every walk of life, and in every locality.
“Violence has a traumatic effect on women and children who are assaulted, or are witness to violence in their own homes.”
Like many councils, Greater Dandenong Council provides referral and support services for families and family members affected by family violence, as well as programs to teach young people about respectful and non-violent relationships.
Council also informs the community about family violence, facilitates local prevention initiatives and runs programs to prevent such abuse.
Cr Long said that workplaces, including councils, were integral to supporting those speaking out against violence.
“We spend so much of our lives at work and share so much with our work colleagues, workplaces can not only support White Ribbon Day, but can also make decisions and policies that support those addressing family violence situations.”
