Equality and respect the focus of anti-violence campaign
Kingston Council is putting respect in the spotlight as part of the global campaign – 16 days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence.
Kingston will be sharing the message of support for a community free of gender-based violence through a range of channels including online, stencilling key messages on our sporting fields, and even lighting up our City Hall clock tower.
Kingston Mayor Steve Staikos said actively supporting this vital campaign helps bring about Council’s vision of being progressive, inclusive and prioritising the wellbeing and safety of all members of our community.
“It’s imperative that respect is extended across our entire community to everyone, however unfortunately women and girls are sadly still disproportionately represented as victims of violence, especially in the home,” Cr Staikos said.
“This simply can’t continue, and Kingston is proud to be supporting the 16 days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence campaign through ongoing advocacy and by taking practical steps to make a real difference.”
Activities for the 16 days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence campaign include:
- The community is invited to join a webinar discussion on Equality, Respect and Youth looking at causes of gender-based violence, how it impacts health and safety, and what support is available. The webinar is at 4pm on Wednesday 1 December.
- ‘Respect Women: Call it Out’ stencils on local sportsgrounds at Keeley Park (Clayton South), Mentone Reserve and Chelsea Recreation Reserve.
- The clock tower at the Kingston Arts Centre in Moorabbin will be lit up in orange.
- For the kids, virtual and in person story-times will be held at Kingston Libraries featuring books that highlight the importance of respect, equality and inclusion.
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 family violence, help is available through contacting Safe Steps (Victoria’s 24/7 family violence support service) on 1800 015 188 or via safesteps.org.au
