Kingston launches Roll for Respect
Kingston is committed to preventing gender-based violence and is putting respect in the spotlight for 16 days during November and December.
The City will kick off its 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign with a Roll for Respect roller derby bout on Saturday 23 November led by Kingston City Rollers at Springers Leisure Centre in Keysborough.
Kingston Mayor Georgina Oxley said the roller derby event is about showcasing an inclusive, competitive and dynamic sport while sending out a strong message of diversity, equity and respect.
“We encourage the community to come along to this free, family-friendly event and show your support for creating a community free of gender-based violence,” said Cr Oxley.
The Roll for Respect event is suited to all ages. Participants will have a go at playing roller derby then watch the experts.
Be sure to wear ORANGE in support of the 16 Days campaign. Bring skates and helmets if you want to join in, or just runners and socks
The state-wide 16 Days campaign officially begins on 25 November and runs until Tuesday 10 December.
Kingston is running a series of events in support of the theme “Respect Women: Call It Out”, encouraging the community to have conversations about how to be safe and active bystanders.
Look out for footpath stencilling across the city and painted “Respect Women: Call It Out” logos on some of Kingston’s reserves and ovals.
Other events include:
Monday 25 November: Walk Against Family Violence – walk with Kingston and Southern Melbourne Primary Care Partnership from Federation Square to stand up and speak out against family violence. Meet at 11.50am.
Tuesday 26 November: Interfaith Dinner to Prevent Family Violence – the Kingston Interfaith Committee will host a panel discussion on the role of faith organisations in preventing family violence followed by a free dinner at Kingston City Hall.
Friday 6 and Tuesday 10 November: Active Bystander Training – Build the skills to become a safe, active bystander able to take action in challenging situations. Hampton 9.30am-1pm; Prahran 9am-12.30pm.
The community can also get involved in the 16 Days of Activism at Kingston’s Leisure Centres and Libraries. Take part in one of the family outdoor yoga sessions being run as part of the campaign or pop into your local library and choose a book that challenges gender stereotypes.
