Council is proud to have supported the 16 Days of Activism campaign once again. This global movement promotes gender equality and encourages communities to take action to prevent gender-based violence.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign began on 25 November and concluded on 10 December. It aimed to raise awareness about issues in our community including gender inequality, family and gender-based violence, respectful relationships and community safety.
Mayor of Maroondah, Councillor Rob Steane, said everyone needs to play a part in preventing gender-based violence.
"Gender-based violence can happen to anyone, of any age, culture, ability or socioeconomic background, so it's important that we all build systems, cultures, organisations and communities that are safe and inclusive and that promote equal and respectful relationships between people of all genders," Cr Steane said.
"We can also help support those around us by being 'active bystanders' and calling out inappropriate or disrespectful language and behaviour, either in the moment or following an incident."
You may have seen our billboards across Maroondah expressing messages of safety, non-violence, respect and gender equality. These messages were developed with local partner organisations and reached out to members of our Indigenous community, two Burmese communities and women with disabilities.
In support of the campaign, Council also:
- Partnered in the 16 Steps to Respect Project with Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place, Boorndawan Willam Aboriginal Healing Service, Victoria Police and Eastern Community Legal Centre.
This mosaic art project brought men, women, elders and younger people together to talk about what respect looks like. The mosaic tiles will be gifted to Victoria Police and installed in Croydon and Ringwood police stations.
