WITH more than one woman per week killed by a current or former partner in Australia, White Ribbon Day reminds us that violence against women is also a man’s issue.
Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said today, White Ribbon Day, was another important event that raised awareness of the blight of domestic violence throughout our communities.
Towns in Mr Coulton’s electorate, covering from Bingara to Dubbo, rank as some of the worst in NSW for reported cases of domestic violence.
Mr Coulton said domestic violence would not be tolerated.
“Any form of domestic violence, whether physical or emotional, is simply unacceptable,” Mr Coulton said.
“Unfortunately, there is still a real stigma attached to domestic violence which prevents people not just reporting incidences of violence, but also talking about the issue generally.
“We all deserve to feel safe in our own households; our homes should be the safest place we can go to.”
Towns across NSW and Australia are holding events to raise funds and awareness.
One event is the Masquerade Ball in Moree this Friday, November 27, at the Max Centre’s Chandelier Ballroom.
Liz Swan, a client-court support officer working with the Moree Domestic Violence Action Team (DVAT), said the event had been a long time coming.
“We’re all very excited about the event, and to raise awareness around what White Ribbon is all about,” Ms Swan said.
“Domestic violence is our number one priority here in Moree at the moment, and we are holding the ball to raise awareness around all forms of violence, especially domestic violence.”
The night will include a raffle and auction, with great prizes on offer from a camera to handbags and Christmas ham, which have all been donated from local businesses.
All money raised will go to the White Ribbon Foundation and DVAT.
The White Ribbon Campaign is the largest global male-led movement to stop violence against women.
For more information about the ball, contact Denise Haines on 0447 455 119.
