Monash men take a stand against domestic violence

 

Today is White Ribbon Day – a day dedicated to tackling the dark underbelly of Australian society that is domestic violence against women and children.

While tabloid news reports tend to focus on creating a fear of violence in public places such as on King Street at 3.00 am during a Saturday night, the statistics clearly show that our politicians, police, social workers and all of us generally should be far more concerned about the violence which takes place in the home and which is perpetrated by men who supposedly love their victims (as opposed to by complete strangers).

Tragically, one in three women and girls will experience violence in their lifetime.  Mostly, this occurs at the hands of someone they live with or know well.  We should all be interested in trying to something about this.

White Ribbon Day is aimed at men.  It encourages men to take a pledge – to swear – not to treat women or girls violently.  It also aims to instil in all men a preparedness to speak up in situations where they see or suspect a mate or work colleague doing the wrong thing.  The message is clear: violence of any sort against women is never ok.

Monash Council is a strong supporter of White Ribbon Day.

This morning I attended and spoke at an early breakfast at Council’s depot (where our outdoor workers are based) which was aimed at highlighting White Ribbon Day.

Everyone in the room was moved by Gee, a White Ribbon Day ambassador, who spoke about her experiences as a survivor of domestic and family violence.  Her’s was both a chilling and inspiring account which gave all in attendance a very clear understanding of the human suffering which violent behaviour causes.  Following Gee, attendees were provided with some moments of quiet reflection when Council’s Director Infrastructure, Ossie Martinez, performed a related song he had written.  I did not know previously that Ossie was musically inclined and his performance was a nice surprise which added further emotion to the morning.

The final part of the  morning involved the airing of a video produced by a number of male workers at Monash who each delivered a message that violence against women is never ok.  As well as being very well put together, the video was a great way for a number of committed workers at Council to demonstrate their personal support for White Ribbon Day.

Unfortunately, my afternoon commitments today meant I could not be at the Civic Centre when these things were repeated for Civic Centre staff, however, I am sure that event would have been equally successful.  I appreciate Cr Bill Pontikis for representing me at the afternoon event.