Respect Victoria announces expanded 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence project for 2020

Municipal Association of Victoria awarded $350,000 to support community-based activities championing the prevention of violence across Victoria.

Respect Victoria announces expanded 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence project for 2020

Following on from last year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Respect Victoria is excited to announce the 2020 project alongside several partner organisations.

The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) has been awarded $350,000 to support community-based activities across the state.

“After a competitive submissions process, MAV were selected to develop and deliver a grassroots program across metropolitan and regional Victoria,” said Respect Victoria CEO Tracey Gaudry. 

“The project will focus on supporting diverse communities using an intersectional approach.”

“MAV’s work in partnership with communities across Victoria on the 2019 campaign was both successful and powerful in encouraging communities, organisations and individuals to take action to examine the gendered norms, structures and systems that lead to violence against women,” said Ms Gaudry. 

The MAV will partner with the Domestic Violence Resource Centre Victoria (DVRCV) and Victorian Council of Social Services (VCOSS) on the project.

A series of small grants will be distributed by MAV to Victorian councils and community organisations, to ensure that diverse communities across Victoria are supported and encouraged to be part of the suite of activities. 

Cr Coral Cross, President of the MAV, welcomed the opportunity to lead the project alongside Respect Victoria. 

“The MAV is delighted to coordinate this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence initiative, and to once again support councils and community organisations to participate and innovate.” 

“Local government plays a significant role in supporting, encouraging and shaping the communities that we serve. We must all work together to call out gender inequality, discrimination, and sexism,” said Cr Ross.

The 16 Days of Activism will begin on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. It will run until December 10, Human Rights Day.

Respect Victoria is proud to collaborate with organisations like MAV to spark conversations, encourage change, and work towards a future where everyone is safe, equal and respected.