To commemorate the international 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, people in Sunbury will have the chance to hear from those who inspire other women and girls to feel empowered, motivated and valued members of the community.
Hosted by Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health (SCCH), a morning tea on Thursday, December 8, from 10.30am to noon, will feature a number of guest speakers, who are helping to process gender equality at a local level.
Organiser of the 16 Days activities for the health service, Lisa Richards, said there were many opportunities in the region for women of any age to get involved in their community, to share their expertise and knowledge, and learn new skills.
“We invite people to join us to reflect on the importance of striving for gender equality and women’s empowerment,” she said.
“We know that respecting, uplifting, and empowering women is a crucial step towards a world without gender-based violence.”
The international campaign runs from November 25 to December 10, raising awareness while exploring and challenging why gender-based violence exists.
Speakers at the Sunbury event include Sunbury Aboriginal Corporation chief executive Raquel Stewart, Goonawarra Neighbourhood House manager Isabella Rosinksy, financial counsellor Nel Staite and local youth leader and allergy awareness advocate Kara Gifford.
Strong visual displays and the opportunity to create a ‘Respect is…’ sign, to highlight what ending gender-based violence means to them.
“We want to pay tribute to the many survivors of gender-based violence,” Ms Richards said.
“Their bravery, experience and stories inform how health and community services such as ours respond to and support survivors of family violence.”
The event will take place at SCCH, 12-28 Macedon Street, Sunbury.
Register here: www.surveymonkey.com/r/SunburyRespectMorningTea
Elsie Lange
