City of Kwinana hosts Silent March to raise awareness of family and domestic violence

The City of Kwinana hosted the Say No to Family Domestic Violence Silent March last Wednesday, with more than 70 people walking from Chisham Square in the heart of the city to Calista Oval.

Kwinana mayor Carol Adams said the event raised awareness of family domestic violence.

“Police statistics show that, sadly, 12 homicides attributed to family domestic violence occurred in the last 12 months in WA,” Ms Adams said.

“A heartbreaking eight of these were children or babies.”

The Silent March was held during 16 Days in WA from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, through to December 10, Human Rights Day.

Lucy Saw Centre manager Helen Lauwers said the event aimed to raise awareness of the prevalence of family domestic violence in the community.

“It’s everyone’s business and the fundamental need to collectively support and validate victim/survivors, whilst bring perpetrators to account,” she said.

“Everyone has a role to play in speaking out against family and domestic violence. It’s our duty to listen and validate someone’s experiences and encourage people to reach out to professional services for support.”

Rockingham mayor Deb Hamblin said the City of Rockingham was proud to work with the City of Kwinana in support of the 16 Days in WA campaign.

Both councils are in the Rockingham Kwinana Safe Family Alliance Group, an inter-agency group that identifies trends and services being delivered in the area to advocate for more resources in the region.

“Family domestic violence is a topic that can be difficult to talk about,” Ms Hamblin said.

“However, increasing awareness can help community members recognise behaviours and reduce risk and harm.

“Sector networks such as the Rockingham Kwinana Safe Family Alliance, the delivery of free training to residents and not-for-profit organisations, and campaigns such as 16 Days in WA all aim to build a safe, connected and resilient community.

“During 16 Days in WA, the city will have educational displays in all of its libraries regarding FDV support services.”

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