Respect Victoria is set to launch into the United Nations’ annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence with Melbourne’s Walk Against Family Violence on Monday 25 November.
“Respect Victoria is proud to support safe steps as principal partner of the 2019 Walk Against Family Violence, taking place from 12pm at Federation Square in Melbourne on Monday 25 November to launch the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (’16 Days of Activism’),” said Melanie Eagle, Respect Victoria Chair.
“The walk occurs annually on 25 November, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women,” Ms Eagle added.
Now in its eleventh year, the event continues to gain momentum, drawing large crowds ranging from community members to representatives from organisations including Victoria Police and the City of Melbourne.
Rosie Batty, 2015 Australian of the Year recipient will officiate the event, which includes a speech from The Hon Gabrielle Williams, Minister for Prevention of Family Violence. At the conclusion of official proceedings, the crowd will set off on the walk, making their way across four city blocks and looping back to Federation Square.
“Respect Victoria warmly invites community members to join in to make the symbolic gesture of walking towards a future where all people are safe, equal and respected, free from all forms of family violence and violence against women,” said Ms Eagle.
“If you would like to attend, please register for this free event. Attendees are encouraged to wear orange in line with theming from the United Nations #OrangeTheWorld - a key component of the 16 Days of Activism. The colour orange symbolises a brighter future, free from violence.
“Respect Victoria will be running its campaign “Respect Women: Call It Out” across the ’16 Days of Activism’ period. The campaign encourages people to call out sexism, sexual harassment and disrespect towards women when safe to do so.
“To commemorate ’16 Days of Activism’ and support Respect Victoria’s campaign “Respect Women: Call It Out”, Respect Victoria has funded the Municipal Association of Victoria, resulting in 79 local government councils and others, including ten women's health organisations hosting a range of events and other activities, including a number of local walks against family violence. These initiatives are designed to bring community together and encourage discussions about the prevention of violence against women and family violence,” Ms Eagle added.
For details of some of the Respect Victoria funded events and activities taking place across the state during this year’s ’16 Days of Activism’ browse the Respect Victoria event calendar.
To learn more about the events and activities and how to get involved, visit www.respectvictoria.vic.gov.au