16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

The City of Whittlesea have proudly partnered with Whittlesea Community Connections and DPV Health to promote the Respect Victoria state-wide campaign Respect Women: 'Call it out'. 

How to get involved:

Walk Against Family Violence

Community members are invited to join in to make the symbolic gesture of walking towards a future where all people are safe, equal and respected, free from all forms of family violence and gender-based violence. 

We have developed three routes to choose from and encourage you and your family and friends to participate and show your support. You can download the walking maps for each location below.  

1. Mernda
2. Epping / Lalor
3. Thomastown

The walk will take place nationally on 25 November. However you can participate in the walk anytime between 25 November and 10 December.

Please ensure you follow relevant COVID-safe principles on your walk.  

Youth Art Showcase

Young people aged 13 to 25 years were invited to submit any piece of art interpreting the themes of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence and what this means to you. This could be a drawing or painting, a song, a short film, music or video. 

An online launch of the art showcase was held on 8 December, with a panel of young people discussing the art and themes and celebrating local talent. 

Four young local artists submitted their work as part of this showcase. You can view their artwork below.

1. Maram’s artwork depicts societal views and responses victim survivors receive when disclosing incidents of family violence.
2. Em’s sculpture portrays the struggle of hiding one’s gender identity and sexuality from their family and community whilst highlighting the beauty that exists within the LGBTIQA+ community.
3. Victoria’s poem highlights the violence perpetrated against Asian women and the repercussions this has on young, Asian women.
4. Emilee’s digital artwork illustrates the different forms of abuse women experience, from physical, emotional to psychological. The woman appears exhausted, with new and healing bruises to signify the likelihood of abuse occurring more than once.

Listen to "The Conversation" podcast

The Whittlesea Youth Advisory Committee have created a podcast to encourage community conversation and action on preventing violence against women and family violence. 

Listen to The Conversation podcast at: https://youtu.be/1hUCk1Gn2bw

Read a book or watch a movie, and challenge the portrayal of gender

• Watch Change the Story, a short eight minute clip that provides insights into how gender inequality leads to gender based violence against women. This video is available in multiple languages. 
• Find content that promotes gender equality and respect or challenges gender stereotypes. Are there any old movies you remember watching that portrayed negative gender stereotypes? Try watching it again and challenge yourself to look at it in a new light. 
• Your local library has lots of information and books available to borrow on the topic. You can also find free movie content on SBS and ABC television.  

If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, help is available.

In case of immediate danger call Triple Zero (000) and ask for Police.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) 1800respect.org.au.

The 24/7 national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service or try one of the services listed here for more information, help and advice.