On average one woman is killed each week by a current or former partner according to the National Homocide Monitoring Program.
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The Australian Institue of Health and Welfare also recognises domestic and family violence is also the pricniple cause of homelessness for women and their children.
With these facts in mind it is not surprising the White Ribbon Day – the campaign against domestic violence against women – has attracted the attention of the nation.
The White Ribbon Day began after 14 women were massacred by a lone gunman in Montreal, Canada, in 1991.
A handful of Canadian men joined forces to urge men to speak out against violence against women.
Wearing a white ribbon, especially during the weeks leading up to the anniversary of the women’s deaths highlighted the public pledge of the men to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.
It is a stand that is now attracting the support of men around the world and it is not surprising considering in Australia alone more than a third of women have reported experiencing at least one incidence of physical or sexual violence according to the 2012 Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Sadly most of us will know someone who has suffered domestic violence and there are many more people who suffer in silence.
It is a situation that has horrific impacts on women, children and families in general, but it also has a huge negative impact on the economy.
The total annual cost of domestic violence in Australia is $8.1 billion according to a 2004 report from Access Economics.
A show of support for the campaign against domestic violence during White Ribbon Day on November 25 is the very least we can do in an effort to raise awareness of this tragic sickness running through our society.
There will be several opportunities in the Southern Highlands to show support for White Ribbon Day and the campaign against domestic violence against women.
There will be a White Ribbon designer clothes sale to raise money for the organisation on Saturday at the Henrietta Rose Room, Bowral. Doors will be open from 9am until 2pm.
A golf day held to raise awareness about those suffering from domestic violence will be held on Sunday. The Expect Respect golf day will be held at Highlands Golf Course.
