Community to unite against violence

BENDIGO will again join a global campaign aimed at bringing awareness to, and ending, violence against women later this month.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a United Nations initiative recognised from 25 November to 10 December each year.

Greater Bendigo Against Family Violence’s calendar of community events and activities outlines ways residents can support the cause.

Chairperson, Margaret Singe, said it was important for the local community to show solidarity with victims and survivors of violence.

“If we can show community support for them and we can show that the community aren’t condemning them, that we’re actually behind them and supporting them, then that goes a long way for them coming forward to report,” she said.

“Our main goal through the 16 days is to make people aware that if they are living in family violence situations, they have resources they can use. There are services available to them, they don’t have to stay in those relationships.

“Even people that may know people in that sort of relationship, they can find out what they can do to help and that’s important because we don’t want anyone living in family violence situations.”

While uncertainty around COVID-19 restrictions meant the group couldn’t plan their community walk for the campaign, people can still partake in a virtual walk and map their journey online.

“We’re hoping to get lots of people out taking a walk, taking photos and showing us online what they’re doing for the 16 days,” Ms Singe said.

The Conservatory will also be lit up in the campaign’s orange colour each night and feature a marigold display and crocheted flowers made by Bendigo yarn bombers.

To find more daily events, head to the Greater Bendigo Against Family Violence Facebook page.