Take a stand for equality and help us create a safer, more inclusive community for everyone during the United Nation’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence.
This initiative runs every year from the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November to Human Rights Day on 10 December.
Each year, we join with people around the world to call for action against one of the world’s most persistent violations of human rights – violence against women.
‘The City of Melbourne is committed to preventing family violence in our community,’ Lord Mayor Sally Capp said.
‘We have a proud record of promoting gender equality and being a child safe organisation. With reports of family violence incidents increasing across the state, it is a reminder that we still have work to do to create a safer society where everyone feels valued and protected.’
Join us for the following events as we raise awareness about gender-based violence, challenge discriminatory attitudes and call for improved laws and services to end violence against women.
1. Participate in the Safe Steps Annual Walk Against Family Violence
This year, participants are invited to walk around their neighbourhood on Wednesday 25 November, wearing orange and sharing their walking event with others using the hashtags #WAFV2020 and #WhyWeWalk on social media.
Individuals, community groups and workplaces interested in participating in the walk can register at Safe Steps.
We have purchased 500 orange masks to distribute to those in the municipality who have signed up for the walk. Masks can be collected from the following locations:
- City Library, 253 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
- North Melbourne Outdoor Pool, 1 Macaulay Road, North Melbourne
- Family Services Carlton Baths, 28 Howard Street, North Melbourne (staff and service users only)
- Hotham Hub Children’s Centre, 248 Rathdowne St Carlton 3053 (staff and service users only)
- North Melbourne Children’s Centre, 113 Melrose Street, North Melbourne (staff and service users only)
2. Join an online webinar about masculinity
Join experts for an online webinar and panel discussion on masculinity on Thursday 10 December from 7pm to 8.30pm.
Hear about the risks associated with masculine stereotypes and how fostering healthy conversations about masculinity can create a more respectful and healthy community.
Panellists include Matt Tyler and Paul Zappa from The Men’s Project, children’s book author and illustrator Scott Stuart, Misha Barr from Women’s Health Victoria and Kesh Sharma from hUmen.
3. Expand your mind with great books
Break down gender stereotypes with our 16 Days of Activism reading list. The inspiring books include fiction, young adult and non-fiction books that challenge traditional gender roles.
4. Become an ally
The Western Region Preventing Violence Together Partnership is calling on men to address gender inequality and prevent violence against women through the 16 Days of Allyship challenge.
Register as an ally to learn how to create a more equal society that values and respects women. Join us and help spread the word with the men in your life.
Individuals interested in participating can register as an ally until Wednesday 25 November.
Further resources
- If you’re experiencing family violence or you’re concerned for another person’s safety, there is help available, including drop-in sessions. Find local and state wide services and resources.
- Learn more about Respect Victoria’s Respect Women: Call it out campaign
To find out more, visit Gender equality.
