Let’s uncover secrets
WHITE Ribbon Australia is uncovering the nation’s most shameful secret, the extent of male violence against women, which claims at least one woman’s life every week.
Australia, land of secrets is an awareness- raising campaign launched for White Ribbon Day tomorrow.
Australia, land of secrets intends to give a voice to the everyday experiences of violence that occur all around the nation.
These acts, from inappropriate behaviour or harassment to physical and emotional abuse, are part of a culture of violence.
Chairman of White Ribbon Australia, Lt. Gen Ken Gillespie (Rtd) says that Australia has 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 $US14.7 billion ($A16 billion) 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.
‘‘Every woman, and man, can make a stand and speak up about the issue.’’
This White Ribbon Day, tomorrow, White Ribbon Australia is encouraging people to speak up.
Australia, land of secrets brings a new creative element to Australia’s only national male- led campaign to end men’s violence against women, now in its 10th anniversary year.
For more information visit www.whiteribbon.org.au