25 November – 10 December 2023
The latest National Community Attitudes towards violence against women Survey shows:
91% agreed that violence against women is a problem in Australia. Yet, the majority of Australians do not think it is a problem in their own suburb or community. Many do not know that violence against women is most often perpetrated by men. Many Australians do not know where to go for help. The knowledge and attitudes of many Australians are out of step with the evidence. Understanding and rejection of violence against women is improving, but changing attitudes is always slow. Ending violence against women and children is everybody’s responsibility. The Victorian government’s response shows ongoing nation-leading reform towards prevention.
What can you do?
Join the Walk Against Family Violence on Friday 24 November and help create a future where we are all safe, equal and respected. Or, come along to one our services listed below.
Walk Against Family Violence
Friday, 24 November 2023, 11:00am
Parliament House Steps, Spring Street, Melbourne
Meeting Point: When facing the steps, look for the PVAW banner on the left side
Evensong
Tuesday, 28 November 2023, 5:10pm
St Paul’s Cathedral, Melbourne
Holy Communion
Preacher: The Revd Tracy Lauersen (Chair, Family Violence Working Group, Anglican Church of Australia)
Sunday, 10 December 2023, 8:00am and 10:00am
St Paul’s Cathedral, Melbourne
Calling out disrespect
Violence against another starts with lack of respect. As Christians, we believe God created each person of equal value and in God’s own image. Here are some suggestions to call out disrespect.
- Don’t laugh at sexist jokes.
- Show your disapproval if behavior is not okay.
- Check in with the person affected.
- Speak up to educate and explain why a comment is unacceptable.
- Support others who call out inappropriate comments.
Prayer for respect of all
Almighty God, we thank you that by your powerful word you are active in the world. You support and encourage the oppressed, the exploited and the vulnerable because all lives are precious and treasured in your sight. We thank you for sending us your Son Jesus to model for us a better way to relate to one another, and to proclaim the hope of your kingdom where all may know your peace. We are sorry for the times we have not valued and respected one another because of differences of gender, culture, or ability, and so have offended your holy love given equally to all. By your Holy Spirit help us to celebrate the diversity of the gifts you have given, to live out your way of peace, and to faithfully follow Jesus Christ our Lord, in whose name we pray. Amen.