MEDIA RELEASE - Every step counts – ‘Walk for Respectful Relationships’ event sends a powerful message against domestic violence
Residents from across the Sutherland Shire are set to once again come together to stand up against domestic and family violence as part of the annual ‘Walk for Respectful Relationships’ event, with hundreds of local students, civic leaders and representatives from local service organisations expected to band together as part of the community awareness initiative.
Sutherland Shire Council has again joined a number of local organisations in supporting the event, with staff and students from 25 local high schools, representatives from local businesses and community groups and state and Federal MPs among those set to take part in the event to show a united front against domestic and family violence.
Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Jack Boyd, said he was proud of the continued community support for the event, sending an explicit message that domestic and family violence is not tolerated within the Sutherland Shire.
“Walking together on Friday symbolises our community’s united stance against domestic violence and reaffirms our support for those affected by it. Every step reinforces that domestic violence has no place here,” Mayor Boyd said.
“Education from a young age is critical in addressing domestic violence and initiatives like the public speaking competition at Woolooware High School, where students engage in discussions on respectful relationships and preventative measures are vital to creating real, lasting change.
“Council is proud to support the annual campaign to end domestic violence, which is part of a globally led initiative run by the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women. Domestic violence often occurs behind closed doors, so this is a chance to raise awareness, support victims, and take a firm stance against it.
“I’m inspired by our community’s continued support for this initiative. It takes courage to speak out and call out issues like domestic violence. Together, we’re building a safer, more respectful community,” Mayor Boyd said.
The Sutherland Shire Walk for Respectful Relationships event will see participants walk from Don Lucas Reserve to Cronulla Park where students from Woolooware High School will address attendees, challenging the community to confront disrespect and take proactive steps to prevent domestic violence.
Woolooware High School Principal, Mardi Benson, praised the event’s ongoing impact, highlighting the role of youth voices in fostering change.
“Our students, across the region, show a deep commitment to fostering respectful relationships and creating a difference in our community. This event gives them a voice – and us, as adults, a chance to listen and learn from their perspective on the steps they would value in changing their world.” Ms Benson said.
“During the public speaking component of this event, the courage our students display in engaging with this difficult topic, and in supporting each other in sharing their thoughts is truly inspiring. They actively demonstrate a clear determination to stop disrespect before it escalates.
“These speeches we hope will inspire our community into action, when they are shared with the community at the walk on Friday 29 November 2024.”
Event Details:
Date: Friday, 29 November
Location: Don Lucas Reserve to Cronulla Park, Cronulla
Start: 9:45am for 10:00am start
Ceremony: Formal ceremony at Cronulla Park, featuring speeches by winners of the Woolooware High School speaking competition at 10:45am.
The community is invited to register and participate, standing united to end domestic violence and foster respect in every relationship.
For more information on the event, please visit Walk for Respectful Relationships.