Each year Stonnington proudly supports the 16 Days of Activism and state-wide Respect Is campaign to raise awareness of the impact of family violence on women and the link to gender inequality.
The campaign starts on 25 November, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.
During the campaign, the City of Stonnington is encouraging the community to start important conversations about what respect means and how to ‘call out’ sexism, harassment and disrespect towards women.
City of Stonnington Mayor, Cr Jami Klisaris, said that everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in their family and relationships.
“Gender inequality and family violence continues to be a very real concern, so we encourage everyone to think about and take action towards creating a more respectful society”.
In the lead up to the 16 Days campaign and as part of the Stonnington Literary Festival, Chapel Off Chapel will host two live panel discussions on The abuse in our homes and How we talk about consent.
The Pipes at Prahran Square will showcase a sight and sound compilation featuring voices of the community exploring the meaning of respect and Stonnington Libraries will host Respect Is themed Storytime sessions featuring children’s books and songs that promote boys and girls as equals.
The conversation about respect will continue with a Seniors Rights Victoria presentation on elder abuse and webinars on Rethinking manhood for a happier, healthy life and Safer online communication, Social Media Self-Defence training for business and community leaders who have an active online presence as part of their working lives.
Stonnington’s Youth Services team will also open the dialogue around gender inequality and respect in a 16-day social media campaign offering competitions, podcasts and other helpful resources. You can also show your support by joining the crew as they fly the orange flag at the Safe Steps Walk Against Family Violence on Friday 25 November.
Community groups and clubs are encouraged to show their support by planning their own event to mark 16 Days of Activism. Visit Safe + Equal for ideas and the 16 Days of Activism Toolkit.
