Ahead of White Ribbon Day – International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25, our future generation say it is vital for both men and women to take an equal role in the fight against violence.

Speaking at the breakfast attended by students from eight schools in the region, MNCLHD chief executive and White Ribbon Ambassador Stewart Dowrick said targeting young people in our community was important as it would ensure future generations continue to be committed to the reduction of violence against women.

“White Ribbon Day is about talking about the fact that domestic violence does not discriminate in the community, and with one in three women experiencing abuse in their lifetime, it will take a whole of community approach – which includes our youth – to stamp it out.

“We want young people to know that violence against women is unacceptable, it is never the victim’s fault, help is always available and if you see something you should definitely say something.

“Young people need to know that their voice is important, that they can make a difference, so to see so many young people at this breakfast is encouraging,”  Mr Dowrick said.

Read More: It is never as easy as just leaving: One woman’s tale to freedom

At the breakfast Jed Peisley, Acting Deputy Principal of Kempsey High, spoke about what measure students at Kempsey High are taking to be aware of domestic violence.

“Domestic violence is okay to talk about, it is gendered and we need to change the way we think about it to be able to stamp it out.

“At Kempsey High students have taken a number of steps in class to actively speak about what they can do to help,” Mr Peisley said.

Mr Peisley said the school is a White Ribbon prevention school who put an emphasis on fostering respectful relationships.

“This White Ribbon Day I encourage everyone to become White Ribbon supporters,” he said.