Greater Bendigo Against Family Violence has released a calendar of events and activities for the community to get involved in during the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence, which runs from November 25 through to December 10.
Copies of the calendar of events are available at Library branches or you can download a copy from the City’s website.
Greater Bendigo Against Family Violence Committee Chair, Margaret Singe said this year’s campaign encourages community to work together to prevent gender-based violence.
“We recognise all victims of gender-based violence but predominately 80% of victims are women,” Ms Singe said.
“One woman is killed every seven to ten days in Australia by a partner or ex-partner and this statistic has not changed in a number of years. In Greater Bendigo, police attend approximately six incidents of gender-based violence a day.
“We encourage community to attend our events and activities as this is a way for them to be better informed in relation to gender-based violence to know where to go for help either for themselves or for family and friends.
“Gender based violence is prevalent in our community. It is preventable and something seen or heard at one of our events could be a step towards prevention.
“We need to continue trying to progress a future where all community members are safe, equal and respected.”
The 16 Days of Activism campaign will commence, with guest speaker Jelena Dokic at the launch event on November 25. Jelena is a remarkable woman, champion tennis player and strong advocate for a violence free world.
The Emu Valley Cricket Association will hold a violence prevention showcase cricket match on Saturday November 16, in Bendigo and there will be “respect is” displays located throughout the community including Bendigo Marketplace, Lansell Square, Libraries, neighbourhood houses and Red Energy Arena.
Many of the events and activities are free to attend in a range of locations across Greater Bendigo. They include Storytime at Bendigo Library, webinars and author talks, coffee with a cop events, pop up stalls and craft activities.
The campaign will end on Sunday December 10, which marks the global Human Rights Day.
Join the 16 Days of Activism and help build communities where everyone is safe and equal. It all starts with respect.
