UnionsACT We are Union Women committee convenor, Emma Turner, has called on the federal government to urgently address the rising death-toll caused by violence against women.
“So far this year 47 women have been murdered through gender-based violence. It is estimated that 800,000 women will have experienced gender-based violence this year. What will it take to make the federal government treat this as a national emergency?” said Ms Turner.
Building on the momentum of the vigil held in Canberra in June, Union and other community members are gathering in Haig Park, Braddon, on Thursday 27 September 2018 to demand action and to stand in solidarity with all women who are subjected to gender-based violence.
Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Women, Yvette Berry MLA reaffirmed her government’s support for the ACTU’s demand for 10 days of domestic violence paid leave to be included in the National Employment Standards for every worker.
“Not only is the federal government failing to show real leadership in addressing the causes of gender-based violence, it has also so far refused to include this simple measure in the National Employment Standards to allow women experiencing gender-based violence to seek support for themselves and their children, attend legal and medical appointments and to look for safe accommodation,” said Minister Berry.
The vigil and protest are supported by the ANU Women’s Department. There will be speeches and music by candlelight.
“We ask that attendees bring candles and solidarity to reclaim a space in Canberra that typically feels unsafe for many women to pass through at night,” said rally organiser with UnionsACT, Blair Williams.
Vigil Details
Time: 6pm-7pm
Date: Thursday 27 September 2018
Location: Haig Park, opposite Lonsdale St, Braddon
Event: Facebook link
Emergency contacts for DV victims:
Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS) 24 Hour Crisis Line: 6280 0900, (TTY 6228 1852); YWCA Canberra: 6175 9900; Canberra Rape Crisis Centre (CRCC) Crisis Line: 6247 2525, (Text mobile: 0488586581); Victim Support ACT: 1800 8222 72; Lifeline Canberra 24 Hour Crisis Support Service: 13 11 24