Central Coast Council is urging Coast residents to speak out about violence against women as part of a global campaign raising awareness about domestic violence.

Today is White Ribbon Day, marking an international movement of men and boys working to end men’s violence against women. The day precedes 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign which launches with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November.

Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said Council is supporting the Central Coast Domestic Violence Committee which is leading the region in speaking out on this issue.

“Violence against women is a significant issue on the Central Coast,” Ms Vaughan said.

“We urge every person to call it out if they see inappropriate behaviours of gender-related shaming or abuse.

“Telling sexist jokes or comments, sharing inappropriate images, behaving in a controlling way and emotional manipulation are all symptomatic of attitudes that create an environment which enables violence against women.

“Make a statement against gender violence by attending an information day in Gosford on 30 November or joining the annual walk against violence at The Entrance on 7 December.”

A giant handmade banner and art installation will be a focal point of the information day which will be held in Gosford’s Kibble Park. Organised by the Central Coast Zonta Club, community members came together to make the banner which depicts ‘52’ - the number of Australian women who die each year, on average, as a result of domestic violence.

So far this year, 61 Australian women have been killed in domestic violence situations.

Mayor Jane Smith said violence against women is a significant issue, affecting one in three women from all walks of life.

“This is not a ‘women’s issue, it is a pressing issue for all of us,” Mayor Smith said.

“That is why White Ribbon Day and the 16 Days of Activism are so important – it is about all of us, both men and women, standing up and saying violence against women is not acceptable and will not be tolerated.

“We want to see more leaders in our community join us to also stand up and show their support for the lives of our daughters, sisters, mothers, wives, colleagues and friends.”

Local events:

• Information day, Kibble Park, Gosford, 10am-12.30pm, Friday, 30 November.
• White Ribbon Walk, Memorial Park, The Entrance, 9.45am, Friday, 7 December.

For more information about the campaign visit www.whiteribbon.org.au

ENDS

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