The global campaign begins on Monday, November 25, the International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women, and ends on Tuesday, December 10, Human Rights Day.
Council, as part of the Lower Hume Collaborative Group, is partnering with other councils and organisations to make it clear that family violence is not tolerated or accepted within our communities.
Chief executive Brett Luxford said council was committed to raising awareness and taking action against gender-based violence.
“The 16 Days of Activism is a vital opportunity for us to unite, educate and empower everyone to speak out against violence in all its forms,” he said.
“Family violence is not just a personal issue; it is a community issue. By standing together during these 16 Days of Activism, we send a powerful message that we will not tolerate violence against anyone. Everyone deserves to feel safe.
“We all have a right to feel safe, have equal access to support and live a life free from violence. We all have a role to play in the prevention of violence against women, and this starts with respect.
“Respect is shown in many forms, such as building equitable and healthy relationships, calling out mates who have said something harmful and making it clear that all forms of violence are unacceptable.
“As a community, we can change attitudes and behaviours that support environments that allow violence to thrive.
“We invite all members of our community to participate in events during 16 Days of Activism.
“Together, we can take meaningful steps toward change and show that we stand united in our commitment to ending violence.”
Events
Coffee with a Cop
In partnership with Victoria Police and Northern Community Legal Centre, Coffee with a Cop provides an opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee while engaging in informal and safe conversations with local police officers and a senior lawyer.
There is a session taking place from 9.30am to 11am, Tuesday, December 3, at Little Stones Cafe in Seymour.
Mitchell Community Walk Against Gender-Based Violence: Steps Towards Change
The walk is scheduled to take place in Hadfield Park in Wallan on Thursday, December 5.
The walk begins at 10am at Hadfield Park with a Welcome to Country and opening speeches from a range of people, including Tarang Chawla.
Tarang Chawla is a speaker, writer and former lawyer who serves as Commissioner at the Victorian Multicultural Commission and is the co-founder of Not One More Niki, a grassroots non-profit group working to end men’s violence against women named in memory of his younger sister, Nikita, who was murdered by her partner in 2015.
The 1km walk through Hadfield Park and surrounding block concludes at 1pm with a community event, including local support service stalls, a barbecue and local young artist performances.
Everyone is welcome, and attendees are encouraged to bring friends, family, and pets while wearing orange attire, if you can.
Speak Up Forum
In partnership with Northern Community Legal Centre, the forum is a free event to raise awareness about respect towards women and children and to express support for respectful relationships.
Join in and enjoy free activities with lunch included. People of all ages and genders are welcome.
This session will be on at the Greater Beveridge Community Centre on Thursday, November 28, from noon to 2pm.
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