Mayor Greg Cummings has called on the men and women of Cumberland to stand up, speak out and act to prevent men’s violence against women at a White Ribbon Day breakfast event hosted by the Parramatta Cumberland Family and Domestic Violence Prevention Committee at Guildford Leagues.
The United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, also known as White Ribbon Day, is observed annually on 25 November.
Mayor Cummings explained that White Ribbon is a male-led campaign which originated in Canada in 1991, became active in Australia in 2013, and is now an international effort in more than 57 countries.
“White Ribbon’s vision for Australia is one that closely aligns with our community’s vision for Cumberland,” Mayor Cummings said.
“White Ribbon Australia wants a nation that respects women, in which every woman lives in safety, free from all forms of men’s abuse.
“We want Cumberland to be a place where everyone feels welcome, belongs and can succeed. And for that to be the case, we too must do our part to help end men’s violence against women.
“Cumberland Council recognises that violence against women affects women’s well-being and prevents them from fully participating in society. It also impacts on families, the community and the nation.
“White Ribbon Day gives communities like Cumberland the opportunity to unite in support of ending men’s violence against women.
“It’s a chance to help raise awareness and reduce stigma; learn about different the types of violence and how to safely intervene; show your mates where you stand on this subject; challenge attitudes and behaviours that condone violence.
“It is also an opportunity to make a difference to the lives of women who have or are experiencing violence. Collectively we will be letting them know they are not alone; this is not their fault; this kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable; they deserve better and that help is available.”
“This year, White Ribbon Australia has released a very helpful STOP kit, which stands for See, Talk, Offer Support and Prevent. This can be accessed at www.whiteribbon.org.au.
“If you want to be part of the change you want to see in the world, know someone you believe may be experiencing violence and you’d like advice on how to help them, or if you need support yourself, there are a lot of helpful resources available onn the White Ribbon website.”
