Council launches 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence

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Nillumbik Shire Council is proud to again support the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based violence.

The global initiative aims to address gender inequalities and eradicate violence against women and girls around the world.

The campaign starts today – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women – and ends on 10 December – International Human Rights Day.

Nillumbik’s new Mayor, Cr Frances Eyre, said local government, with its close ties to the community, had an important role to play in advocating for gender equality and prevention of family violence.

“This is an issue that affects many people from all backgrounds,” Cr Eyre said. “We want Nillumbik to be a safe place where everyone is equal.

“Gender equality and the prevention of family violence is one of the priorities of our new Nillumbik Health and Wellbeing Plan, which was endorsed in October.

“We can all make a difference in changing attitudes and creating a more equitable world. Over the 16 days of the campaign, we’ll be sharing some everyday actions we can take to assist.”

Council has joined with local community groups and organisations to present a range of events and activities during the campaign including:

  • Children’s storytime with Eltham Library at the Eltham Town Square
  • Online discussion with Amani Haydar, author of The Mother Wound
  • Free screening of the award-winning documentary MissRepresentation
  • Online Call it Out Bookchat with Yarra Plenty Regional Libraries.

Council has also provided small grants of up to $500 for community-led projects that challenge gender stereotypes and promote gender equity. Recipients have included Early Years services, primary schools, a business and Nillumbik’s leisure centres.

/Public Release. View in full here.