Making a stand against gender-based violence

MITCHELL Shire Council is inviting community members to join them for 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

The 16 Days of Activism is a global campaign beginning on Monday 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and ending on Tuesday 10 December, Human Rights Day.

The shire is partnering with Murrindindi Shire Council and more than 25 local organisations to make it clear that family violence is not tolerated or accepted within the community.

Mitchell Shire mayor Cr John Dougall said council is proud to stand with community partners to raise awareness and promote action.

“Every person deserves to feel safe, respected and valued, at home, at work, and in our community,” Cr Dougall said.

“The 16 Days of Activism is a powerful reminder that change starts with us.

“By standing together, we can challenge harmful behaviours, support victim survivors, and build a future where equality and safety are the norm.

“Respect is shown in many forms- through healthy relationships, calling out harmful language, and making it clear that violence in any form is unacceptable.

“We invite all members of our community to participate in events during the campaign.

“Together, we can take meaningful steps toward change and show that we stand united in our commitment to ending violence.”

The Community Bystander Action workshop is a free event designed to build knowledge and confidence to safely challenge disrespect and promote equality.

It is open to all community members who want to know what they can do when they see something that doesn’t promote a just and safe world.

Participants will learn how to recognise harmful behaviour, explore how gender inequality impacts everyday experiences, and understand the role each person plays in creating a respectful community.

The session will be held from 5pm to 7.30pm on Thursday 27 November at the John Taylor Room, Kilmore Library. Light dinner will be provided.

The Steps Towards Change Walk is being delivered in collaboration with Goulburn River Trail Park Run and Seymour Rotary Club’s Say No to Domestic and Family Violence campaign.

It invites the community to take part in a two or five-kilometre walk/run to show support for respectful relationships and safer communities.

The event will include support service stalls, a coffee van and more. It will take place from 7.45am to 10.30am on Saturday 29 November in Lions Park along the Goulburn River Trail in Seymour.

The next Coffee with a Cop at Seymour provides an opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee while engaging in informal and safe conversations with local police officers.

The event will take place from 9.30m to 11am on Thursday 4 December at Kings Perk Cafe. Free coffee will be provided.

Available via the council website, Customer and Library Service Centres, community centres and support services, a Community Resource Guide includes information on local support services, how to identify and respond to family violence and what happens when you report it.

For a full list of local support services and resources, visit Council’s Family Violence Support Services page.