On Friday I attended the Zonta Club of Central Goldfields' 16 Days of Activism at Zonta's "R" for RESPECT Flowerbed in Phillips Gardens.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual campaign that begins on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and runs through to the International Human Rights Day on 10 December. Led by civil society, the campaign is supported by the United Nations who state that violence against women and girls remains the most widespread and pervasive human rights violation worldwide affecting more than 1 in 3 women, a figure that has remained unchanged over the last decade.
This year's theme is - "UNITE! Activism to end violence against women and girls" which invites everyone to be an activist in preventing violence against women and girls through taking a stand publicly, wearing the colour orange, engaging in activities and events to raise awareness in their local communities, joining women's rights movements and activists.
In many ways the recent pandemic has made the 16 Days of Activism campaign even more important than before. According to the latest statistics from 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic intensified all forms of violence against women and girls:
- 45% of women reported that they or a woman they know has experienced a form of violence against women and girls.
- Seven in 10 women said they think that verbal or physical abuse by a partner has become more common.
- Six in 10 felt that sexual harassment in public spaces has worsened.
So what can you do and how do you get involved? You can attend an activity to help raise awareness. There are some interesting things planned, see flyer. How did these activities come about? Well, Central Goldfields Shire Council is a member of the Victoria Police Neighbourhood Policing Local Safety Committee (NHP LSC). The LSC comprises representatives from Women's Health Loddon Mallee, MDHS, The Orange Door, Council, Various community groups, community services and schools.
The LSC has determined that family violence underpins almost every safety and social issue in Central Goldfields and have committed to making a difference. A survey was conducted across organisations to explore the problem from different lenses. This data was themed, and actions emerged. The actions were further explored and split into 16 days of activities designed for a variety of audiences using different modes. Well done to all for putting this together.
Together we can make a difference, I whole heartedly believe this.
