The City of Kwinana hosted the Say No to Family Domestic Violence Silent March on Wednesday, 30 November with more than 70 people walking from Chisham Square in the heart of the City to Calista Oval.
The Rockingham Kwinana Safe Family Alliance joined with the City of Kwinana, the City of Rockingham, Kwinana Early Years Service (KEYS), and the Lucy Saw Centre Association to host the march.
The Lions Club hosted a lunch for all on the oval.
City of Kwinana Mayor Carol Adams said the remembrance event raised awareness of the issue of family domestic violence.
“Police statistics show that sadly 12 homicides attributed to family domestic violence occurred in the last 12 months in Western Australia.
“A heartbreaking eight of these were children or babies,” Mayor Adams said.
“The City of Kwinana sits on the Rockingham Kwinana Safe Family Alliance group which is an interagency group that identifies trends and services being delivered to advocate for more resources in the area.”
The Silent March was held during 16 Day in WA which takes place from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day.
Mayor Deb Hamblin said the City of Rockingham was proud to be collaborating with the City of Kwinana in support of the 16 Days in WA campaign.
“Family Domestic Violence (FDV) is a topic that can be difficult to talk about. However, increasing awareness can help community members recognise behaviours and reduce risk and harm,” Mayor Hamblin said.
“Through its Community Safety and Support Services Strategy, the City of Rockingham plays an important role in supporting and strengthening the community response to FDV.
“Sector networks such as the Rockingham Kwinana Safe Family Alliance, the delivery of free training to residents and not-for-profit organisations, and campaigns such as 16 Days in WA all aim to build a safe, connected and resilient community.
“During 16 Days in WA the City will have educational displays in all of its libraries regarding FDV support services. The Beach Plaza at the Rockingham Foreshore will also be lit up orange in support of the initiative from 25 November to 1 December.
“We thank the City of Kwinana for its collaborative support of this event and look forward to hosting the Silent March in Rockingham next year.”
If you or someone you know needs help please contact: Crisis Care 1800 199 008 | 1800 Respect 24 hrs | 1800respect.org.au