Council supports 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

Published on 25 November 2023

Orange image that says all women have the right to be safe and respected.

We are proud to again support the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which launches today.

The campaign begins each year on 25 November, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and ends on 10 December, International Human Rights Day. 16 Days of Activism aims to galvanize individuals and organisations, and sees communities around the world join the call to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls.

Mayor Ben Ramcharan said Council was committed to promoting gender equality and preventing gender-based violence.

“Everyone has a role to play in understanding the drivers of violence against women,” Cr Ramcharan said.

“Everyday actions, such as calling out sexist jokes and comments and challenging gender stereotypes, go a long way to creating a more equitable world.

“Gender inequality is a driver of gender-based violence, which is why these actions are so important. Nillumbik should be a safe, welcoming space for all.”

Through Respect Victoria and Safe and Equal (the peak body for specialist family violence services in Victoria), the State Government is supporting councils to run local events during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Chair of Respect Victoria, Kate Fitz-Gibbon, said councils being involved in the 16 Days campaign was crucial, because less than half of all Australians know that violence against women is an issue in their community.

“Local councils play a critical role in supporting their communities to take action to prevent violence against women,” Ms Fitz-Gibbon said.

“Respect Victoria is proud to work alongside Nillumbik Shire Council to help create safe, equal and respectful communities.”

Council is supporting a range of community groups and organisations to deliver events and activities during the campaign through Nillumbik’s 16 Days of Activism Grants, including:

  • A ‘celebration of special women’ garden party at Strathewen Primary School
  • A seniors empowerment information session with Firestorm Martial Arts at Yarra Plenty Regional Library
  • ‘Calling out conversations for the autistic community’ sessions with Different Journeys
  • ‘Nurturing gender equality from a young age’ playgroup sessions at Hohnes Road Playhouse
  • Purchasing of books promoting gender equity, for Christmas Hills Primary School and Eltham South Preschool
  • Nillumbik Leisure facilities ‘going orange’ to raise awareness for the campaign.

For more information, see nillumbik.vic.gov.au/16-days

1800RESPECT is available for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to support people impacted by domestic, family or sexual violence.

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