A NEW awareness-raising campaign has been launched in the lead up to White Ribbon Day.
Australia, Land of Secrets, intends to give a voice to the everyday experiences of violence that occur all around Australia. These acts, from inappropriate behaviour or harassment to physical and emotional abuse, are part of a culture of violence in Australia.
The chairman of White Ribbon Australia, Lt General Ken Gillespie (retired) says that while Australia was a proud nation and unrivalled for not only its physical beauty but its way of life, it had a dark secret.
“The high incidence of male violence against women in this country is very alarming,” he said. “Not only do one in three women over the age of 15 report having experienced physical or sexual violence at some time in their lives, violence is a major cause of homelessness for women and children and costs the economy billions annually in Australia.
“It is important to understand how every act of male violence against women can have serious effects on women, families and society as a whole.
“Male violence against women can happen anywhere and can take many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional and financial violence and has a profound cost across the personal, social and economic sphere.
“The issue of male violence against women is real, it’s worrying and, in many instances, remains hidden.
“Every woman and man can make a stand and speak up about the issue. Australia, Land of Secrets, calls on men, women and the whole community to help uncover Australia’s secrets, raise awareness and stop violence against women.”
White Ribbon Australia will be hosting awareness and fund-raising events throughout the country during November in the lead up to Monday 25 November.
