One in four women have experienced emotional abuse by a current or former partner since the age of 15. On average, one woman a week is murdered by her current or former partner. Furthermore, violence against women is estimated to cost the Australian economy $22 billion a year.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
These are just some of the alarming facts from the Bureau of Statistics that have motivated an ever-increasing support for a very important awareness day on our national calendar.
And today, November 23, is set aside to drive home awareness on a topic that has been swept under the carpet or hidden behind closed doors for way too long. Today is White Ribbon Day.
Today is dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence, educating people in the community about the services and support available to those affected by domestic violence and empowering people who are victims of domestic violence.
White Ribbon Day was first created in 1991 by a handful of Canadian men on the second anniversary of one man's massacre of 14 women in Montreal.
They started to campaign to urge men to speak out against violence against women. The campaign first made its mark in Australia in 2003 when 10,000 ribbons were distributed across the nation.
Although, even in 2003, domestic violence was not a new problem in our society the White Ribbon campaign brought the issue into the limelight.
The day now provides a beacon of hope for those who previously suffered in fear and silence. It heralds the fact that these people are surrounded by friends, family, neighbours and work colleagues who are well aware of the incidence and impact of domestic violence. And this ultimately empowers those who are in an abusive environment.
This year’s campaign has focussed on bringing the community together to end violence against women. And this is being done in a variety of ways in the Bega Valley.
While not directly linked to the White Ribbon movement, Bega Valley’s 16 Days of Activism, including Wednesday’s march and activities day, has the same message at its heart – we the community will not remain silent on violence.
White Ribbon Day may be officially one day each year, but the overriding message is something to be remembered year-round – Domestic violence is never acceptable.