Council supports 16 Days of Activism Campaign
Published on 23 November 2020
Frankston City Council is once again proud to participate in the 16 Days of Activism campaign, aimed at promoting a violence free Victoria.
This year, Council has partnered with Frankston Mornington Peninsula Primary Care Partnership - Respecting Seniors Network, South Eastern Centre Against Sexual Assault, (SECASA), Zonta Club of Melbourne South East and Chisholm Institute Frankston to recognise 16DoA within Frankston City.
North-West Ward Cr Sue Baker said: “16DoA is focused on finding an end to gender based violence through cultivating and encouraging a widespread culture of respect.
“That’s why Frankston City is hosting acclaimed author Ruth Clare who wrote of her childhood, courageously facing her father’s violence. A separate vocal workshop will equip people with practical skills and confidence to speak up when the witness harassment and disrespect against women.
“Look out for free bookmarks at your local cafe as they partner with us to get the word out on respect.”
Deputy Mayor Nathan Conroy added: “This is a critical issue in society and as Council, we’re keen to play our part in advocating for a violence free Victoria, raising awareness and inspiring respect.
“It is also important that we recognise that violence against women is overwhelmingly perpetrated by men. Therefore, as men we have a particular responsibility to call it out when we see any form of disrespect towards women and make it clear that this is not acceptable.”
Frankston City 16DoA partner, Respecting Seniors Network, is raising awareness of the hidden issue of older women experiencing abuse from their partner or spouse. Abuse may be physical, sexual, financial, psychological, social and/or neglect.
The Respecting Seniors Network is a group of committed individuals and organisations in the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula area working together to create the change required to end family violence and elder abuse.
The ‘Respect Older Women - it’s never too late to be safe and respected in our community’ campaign calls on residents to reflect on respect for older women and call out violence experienced by older women within their intimate partner relationships.
Marg Darcy, a recently retired family services professional, Peninsula local and active member of the Respecting Seniors Network said: “We’re challenging the notion that our mothers and grandmothers are all happily and safely living free from family violence.
“Older women experience family violence, just as younger women do. There is no excuse for disrespect and violence against older women.”
Events hosted by Frankston City Council include:
Author Talk: Ruth Clare
Frankston City Libraries
Wednesday 25 November, online, bookings essential
Ruth Clare is the award-winning author of the acclaimed memoir, Enemy and a renowned speaker on domestic violence. Session will include a Q & A with Ruth. For bookings, visit https://library.frankston.vic.gov.au/Whats_On
Free Your Voice: An Online Vocal Workshop
Frankston Arts Centre
Thursday 10 December (International Human Rights Day)
6pm – 7.15pm, via Zoom, suitable for ages 16 and over, bookings essential via email artsaccess@frankston.vic.gov.au
For more details, phone 9784 1896.
This free workshop will help participants to build confidence and embrace using their voice. This is a workshop for anyone, where participants will discover practical tools and exercises to free their voice and speak with confidence in any situation.
If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Seniors Rights Victoria on 1300 368 821. If you are in danger, call 000.
For more information about 16DoA, please visit https://www.respectvictoria.vic.gov.au/16-days-activism-2020