Community asked to show their support against gender-based violence

Published on 24 November 2022

Casterton Memorial Hospital 16 days

Community members in the Glenelg Shire are being asked to show their support against gender-based violence, with several events and initiatives taking place in the region as part of a state-wide campaign.

Respect Victoria’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign will run from the 25 November until 10 December, highlighting the importance of calling out disrespectful behaviour and attitudes that lead to domestic violence.

During the campaign, Respect Victoria’s ‘Call it Out’ logo will be applied to footpaths outside Glenelg Shire Customer Service Centres and Visitor information Centres, as well as participating schools and health services.

Glenelg Shire Mayor Cr Scott Martin said there would also be a number of community-led, local events to recognise the 16 Days campaign.

“Current statistics show that almost 1 in 4 women have experienced intimate partner violence by the age of 15. These are incredibly alarming statistics affecting our friends, family and neighbours and we collectively need to help create a world where everyone is equal, free and safe,” he said.

“To show our support for the 16 Days of Activism Campaign, there will be temporary stencil art of the ‘Respect Women, Call it Out’ logo outside various Council facilities.

“We’re also calling on community members to attend one of the many Council supported events happening in support of the campaign, whether that be attending Parkrun or the community breakfast hosted by the Say No 2 Family Violence Committee.

“For a full list of Council supported events and activities, please visit out website or Facebook page.”

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or abuse, you can contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or in an emergency situation please call 000 for urgent police assistance.

Key events and dates:

  • Thursday 24 November – Libraries After Dark Canvas Workshop at the Portland Library to acknowledge Social Inclusion Week and in anticipation of the start of the 16 Days of Activism Campaign.
  • Friday 25 November – Official start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign and also marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The Respect Victoria logo will be seen on footpaths outside Council Customer Service locations, Visitor Information Centres, as well as participating schools and health services.  
  • Saturday 26 November – Portland Parkrun, with participants encouraged to wear orange in show of support. 
  • Wednesday 30 November – Tyrendarra Football Netball Club Come and Try Female Footy, 6pm start.
  • Thursday 1 December – No Gender December Commences. 
  • Friday 9 December – Community breakfast hosted by Rotary Say No 2 Family Violence at on the green beside the Portland Library, 7am – 8.30am. 
  • Saturday 10 December – 16 Days Conclusion and World Human Rights Day
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