Hundreds gather in Bunbury for White Ribbon Australia march, community unites to end violence against women

An estimated 350 people marched through Bunbury CBD on Friday to help push for an end to violence against women. The Bunbury White Ribbon march, which stretched for almost two city blocks, was to raise awareness and highlight advocacy strategies to tackle violence against women by men. The march was followed by an emotional ceremony facilitated by Bunbury police Det-Sgt Gareth Reed who introduced several inspirational speakers and a moving performance by Jemma Heath of the Paul Kelly song To Her Door. The focus of the day was on the role for men in ending violence against women with local White Ribbon committee CEO Hovea Reed pleased that “men of all ages from school age boys to men” had attended the event. One of the key guest speakers, graciously shared her story of lived experience and spoke of the positive change that has been taking place on the issue. Speakers also encouraged attendees to source unused phones needed by vulnerable women and donate them to DV Safe Phone or at local police stations. Det-Sgt Reed acknowledged the role of some men in the problem, highlighting the need for all to be part of the solutions. The event concluded with a sausage sizzle involving community organisations associated with raising awareness of the issues of family and domestic violence against women. White Ribbon’s national advocacy strategy centres on engaging men and boys to prevent violence against women; encouraging a more comprehensive and positive concept of masculinity; creating safe and equitable workplaces; and criminalising coercion and control. The White Ribbon Foundation was founded by a group of men after several female students were killed at Ecole Polytechnique, Canada in 1989. The organisation has now expanded to 60 countries around the world including Australia. For more information on White Ribbon Australia and it’s mission visit whiteribbon.org.au.