Every year on November 25, White Ribbon Day draws the world's attention to the issue of violence against women. This year, White Ribbon will again be raising awareness to help put a stop to this issue, but we can't do it alone.
This year, White Ribbon is encouraging men to stand up to violence against women with the knowledge that thousands of good men have got their back.
White Ribbon wants men to feel reassured that they can make a difference when it comes to stopping violence against women.
- Currently in Australia, one woman is killed every week by a current or former partner.
- One in three women over the age of 15 report physical or sexual violence at some time in their lives.
- And domestic and family violence is the major cause of homelessness for women and their children.
White Ribbon's focus in 2012 highlights that many men abhor violence against women, but are unsure what they can do to stop it. The campaign suggests how men can challenge their mates, and others, in a way that does not endanger their own safety, knowing there are many good men who will support their actions.
"As a father and a husband, it's an honour to be part of the White Ribbon Campaign; to be a role model for my sons and to stand with other men in stopping violence against women," says NRL legend Nathan Hindmarsh. "Men can do something to stop this violence. We know it is the right thing to do and that when we safely challenge violence, thousands of other men have got our back."
Men are encouraged to visit the White Ribbon Day website to take the oath and spread the word. The oath is a symbol of their commitment to actively challenge violence.
The ASU and White Ribbon Day
For many years, the ASU has been promoting the message of White Ribbon Day and encouraging people to speak up and be heard on this important issue. The Union has many White Ribbon Ambassadors across the country, including National Secretary David Smith and Assistant National Secretary Greg McLean.
On the workplace level, the ASU has led the union movement in seeking and winning domestic violence leave in agreements. For more information, contact your local Branch.