The 16 Days of activism against gender-based violence campaign begins from the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November and ends with International Human Rights Day on 10 December– highlighting that violence against women is a fundamental violation of human rights.
During the 16 Days of Activism, people around the world unite to raise awareness about gender-based violence, challenge discriminatory attitudes and call for improved laws and services to end violence against women for good.
For residents of Kempsey, this campaign is a powerful reminder of the pressing need to create a safer, more inclusive community where everyone can thrive. During this time there will be a range of events occurring around the shire.
Kempsey Shire Council is a proud supporter of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. We are steadfast in our commitment to making all residents and visitors feel safe, valued, and welcomed, regardless of gender.
Council recognises the importance of fostering a community that stands together against violence and works proactively to ensure safety and equity for all.
"Events like the 16 Days of Activism are essential for addressing serious societal issues that affect our community," said Russell Pell, Manager of Community Development.
"They provide an opportunity to highlight the challenges we face and renew our commitment to creating real, lasting change."
Statistics on gender-based violence
In 2022, 60 women were killed because of gender-based violence in Australia
Globally, five women or girls are killed every hour by someone in their own family
An estimated 736 million women - almost one in three - have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both at least once in their life
26% of women aged 15 and older have been subjected to intimate partner violence
24% of adolescent girls who have been in a relationship have experience physical and/or sexual violence from and intimate partner
16% of young women aged 15 to 24 have experience physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner in the past 12 months
Less than 40% of women who experience violence seek help of any sort
We invite you to join one of the many events planned during the 16 Days of Activism. Together, we can stand united against gender-based violence.
Who should take part?
We all have a role to play in preventing gender-based violence.
We need to challenge the attitudes that perpetuate, rationalise and normalise this kind of violence and deny women's right to safety and respect. Within this, men have an important role to play in challenging harmful masculine stereotypes and behaviours.
Shifting these behaviours is hard and slow, but gender equality means all of us working together to achieve true, systemic change.
If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out for help or speak up to make a difference. Let's work together to create a community where everyone feels safe and respected.
