Victorians are encouraged to consider what respect means to them during the 16 Days of Activism

This year’s 16 Days’ initiative will benefit from the involvement of all 79 Victorian councils as well as 18 specialist non-government organisations (NGOs). The Domestic Violence Resource Centre Victoria (DVRCV) and Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS) are also partnering with the MAV to provide their expertise and reach through their networks.

The campaign this year aims to support people to understand what respect looks like, why respect is important and how we put respect into practice in our everyday lives.

Cr Josh Gilligan, interim President of the MAV, says “We know that men’s violence against women is more likely to occur in an environment where women are disrespected, undervalued and discriminated against. We are encouraging people to ‘call it out’ when they witness disrespect towards women and when it is safe to do so.”

“We are proud to support communities across the state to play their part in preventing violence against women. Together, we can call out harmful attitudes and behaviours and create a future where all Victorians are safe, equal and respected,” said Respect Victoria CEO Tracey Gaudry.

Tania Farha, CEO of DV Vic/DVRCV, says: “It is heartening that during a pandemic, Victorian councils and community organisations are galvanised to promote gender equality and respect, and are taking a stand to end family violence and violence against women. The strength of this initiative is that many councils and community organisations are working in partnership with other councils, women’s health services, victim survivors, specialist family violence organisations, libraries and local businesses as part of a locally coordinated approach to the 16 Days campaign.”

VCOSS CEO Emma King says: “Preventing family violence begins with building respect and tackling gender inequality. It’s fantastic that so many community service organisations are participating in the 16 Days of Activism this year. This means our messages of respect, equity and preventing family violence are going to reach more people and diverse communities right across the state.”

Victorian councils and NGOs are implementing a great mix of activities and events to engage their communities in conversations about ‘respect’ during the 16 Days, including webinars and expert panel discussions, multilingual social media campaigns, public art competitions, online storytelling, bystander action training, videos of local leaders talking about ‘respect’, installing giant signs and lighting up buildings in orange.

Access the 2020 campaign resources at www.mav.asn.au/16dayscampaign

Safe Steps 1800 015 188 is Victoria’s 24/7 family violence support service safesteps.org.au

For further information, contact the MAV Communications Unit on (03) 9667 5590.