East Gippsland residents are invited to come together on Friday 20 November for Walk to Change the Story, calling for an end to family violence and violence against women.
Held in the lead-up to the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the walk will bring together community members and local services to stand in solidarity with victim survivors.
We’re inviting everyone to join us at the Nicholson Street Mall in Bairnsdale at 10am on Friday 20 November.
Gender-based violence happens when someone uses power and control over another person because of their gender. While anyone can experience gender-based violence, it disproportionately affects women.
Our Executive Manager of Family, Youth and Children’s Services, Kathy Dickinson, encouraged everyone to take part.
“By joining us, you can take action to prevent family violence and gender-based violence and stand in solidarity with people who have experienced violence,” Kathy said.
“Too many people are suffering in silence, and too many families are being torn apart.
“We want to show victim survivors they’re not alone, and that real change is possible when we all stand together.”
East Gippsland has the highest recorded rate of family violence among Victoria’s 79 local government areas, with reported incidents increasing by 8.2% compared with the previous year.
We’re organising this year’s walk in partnership with the East Gippsland Partners in Violence Prevention Network, with support from East Gippsland Shire Council.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said family violence has no place in our community.
“Every person deserves to feel safe, respected and supported, and we all have a role to play in making that a reality,” Cr Ashworth said.
“The walk is an opportunity for our community to stand together in support of victim survivors, raise awareness of family violence and reaffirm our shared commitment to a safer, more respectful East Gippsland.”
The Bairnsdale walk will take place on the same day as a Respect Victoria march in Melbourne, giving East Gippslanders the opportunity to join a statewide call for change.
First held in Bairnsdale in 2018, Walk to Change the Story continues to share a powerful message: East Gippsland says no to violence.
Need support?
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, contact Safe Steps on 1800 015 188.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 000 and ask for police.
For more information about Walk to Change the Story, visit https://glch.org.au/social-support-and-counselling/say-no-to-violence/
