The Women’s Shed Hornsby Ku-ring-gai (WSHK) hosted a Walk Against Domestic Violence on December 1, participating in the UN’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
School children, local politicians, police and other community stakeholders attended the event, gathering at PCYC Hornsby Ku-ring-gai and wearing orange.
“We are united here today to raise awareness of gender-based violence, challenge discriminatory attitudes and call for improved laws and services to end violence,” said Uma Menon, chair of WSHK. “In Australia, about one in four women experience acts of violence by an intimate partner.”
Domestic violence refers to violent behaviour between current or former intimate partners. Typically, one partner will use fear to exert power and control over the other. Abuse can range from physical, sexual, emotional, social, verbal, economic, and religious.
Family violence refers to violence between family members, including acts of violence between a parent or child. Behaviour towards victims can include limiting access to finances, preventing them from contacting family and friends, humiliating them, threats and other acts of physical violence.
In a service after the walk, Menon discussed the importance of ending the historical silence around domestic violence. By starting important conversations within the community, women are encouraged to leave abusive relationships and seek support. She also discussed the importance of educating children and young adults about respectful relationships to prevent future abusive behaviour.
“The cycle of violence starts with disrespect,” said Menon. “Not all disrespect towards women results in violence, but all violence against women starts with disrespectful behaviour. When we make excuses for this behaviour, we let it grow. Don’t let violence become a normal part of your, or someone else’s, life.”
Hon. Alister Henskens SC, MP and State Member of Ku-ring-gai, discussed the NSW Government’s upcoming $500 million support package for survivors of domestic violence. The plan, announced in October 2021, will include 75 new and upgraded women’s shelters across the state.
“Recent changes in the law has made it easier to protect people who are subject to domestic violence,” Hon. Henskens said. “However, there is still so much more to do. At the end of the day, it is up to each and every one of us to call out domestic violence when we see it, to make it very clear that we stand against it.”
Superintendent Barry Vincent, from the Ku-ring-gai Police Area Command, was also present to express his support.
“The NSW Police is always seeking to improve our response to, and support of, victims of family and domestic violence,” he said. “Not only as police officers but as community members, we recognise the many ways domestic and family violence can be inflicted on those around us; through direct violence, intimidation, social isolation, financial deprivation…It is incumbent on all of us to say ‘no’ to domestic and family violence [and] start these important discussions.”
Indigo Jakeman, a Year 7 student from Tangara School For Girls, discussed the importance of teaching young people to identify abusive behaviour. In her speech, Jakeman commented how “red flags” aren’t limited to partners and family, but can also be found in all types of human relationships.
“I think that young children and even children should know about some of these issues, as it’s not just a family problem,” she said. “Even just in high school, having manipulative friends [is similar to] a toxic relationship. If young people are introduced to these topics, it may prevent some of the big situations that can happen over time.”
Local council was represented by Hon Philip Ruddock, Hornsby Mayor, and Cr Christine Kay, who attended the event on behalf of Cedric Spencer, Mayor of Ku-ring-gai. Both made an address, acknowledging the contribution and services of the WSHK, the Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Women’s Shelter, the local Police Area Command, and the Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Domestic Violence Network.
A one-minute silence was observed during the service, to acknowledge those who had lost their lives due to domestic violence. On average, one woman a week is killed by her current or former partner. This year alone, 36 women have been killed in Australia. A list of their names and ages were read aloud during the ceremony.