Marching as one to end violence against women (Media release)

A large marched in Coburg this morning to mark White Ribbon Day, pledging to bring an end to violence against women.

Among the crowd was Merri-bek’s Deputy Mayor Cr Natalie Abboud, who marched alongside members of Victoria Police, MPs, Merri-bek staff and the community.

Cr Abboud – who herself was a victim in a violent relationship – spoke to those who gathered in Victoria Mall following the march and had a message for women experiencing violence.

“There is a future for you, and a life afterwards. Once I worked through the shame and the aftershock of such trauma, I allowed myself to realise that I am worth something and I am a valuable member of the community,” said Cr Abboud.

“Violence against women is a human rights violation happening in homes in every suburb of Merri-bek, and it is not acceptable that one in four women will experience violence from an intimate partner during her lifetime.

“It is also not acceptable that this is the largest contributor to death and disability in women aged under 45 in Victoria.”

Through its Preventing Family Violence in Merri-bek Strategy, Council continues to demonstrating leadership, working in partnership with other organisations and playing an active role in preventing violence against women and all segments of the community.

“We all have a role to play in the prevention of violence,” said Cr Abboud.

24 November 2017