Campaign aims to prevent gender-based violence

THROUGHOUT the Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, the City of Ballarat is joining with member organisations of the Communities of Respect and Equality Alliance (CoRE) and the Central Highlands Integrated Family Violence Committee (CHIFVC) to host several events.

The campaign, which began on Monday 25 November, encourages Victorians to work together to prevent gender-based violence.

Women’s Health Grampians CEO Marianne Hendron said there is momentum in the community after a challenging year.

“Partnerships and collaboration are a vital part of the puzzle and key to the 16 Days events taking place across the city,” she said.

Last Friday, a walk against gender-based violence was held at Lydiard Street North with speeches following at Alfred Deakin Place.

On Tuesday, more than 150 CoRE members came together to learn about how organisations can help end gender-based violence.

Hilary Pope, treasurer of the Zonta Club of Ballarat said it is important for organisations and the community to work together and create a large impact.

“We’re trying to get a community-wide activity going rather than lots of little individual walks,” she said.

“It makes a bigger impression hopefully and get’s the message over to more people particularly in view of the problems and murders here and so on, people here are very conscious of the issue and how bad it can be.

“It’s not just a women’s concern, which is the old attitude.”

Running across the 16 days, which end on Tuesday 10 December, there will be an art exhibition titled 16 Days Hope of Tomorrow at Ballarat and Sebastopol Libraries.

There will also be themed story times at the Library and Parents Place including child-friendly messaging about gender equality.

On Tuesday 10 December from 6pm, a new video campaign called Change our Game will be launched.

The videos showcase Ballarat’s gender inclusive sports and recreation clubs.

Mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said that gender-based violence is preventable.

“Ballarat has felt the pain that gender-based violence inflicts upon communities, which is why we must all play our part to challenge the harmful attitudes and behaviours that drive violence against women and children,” she said.

“This 16 Days of Activism and beyond, we have an opportunity to come together to forge a future where all Ballarat residents are safe, equal and respected.”

All the events are free, and more information can be found on the City of Ballarat website.