The Surf Coast Shire is recognising 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence with two projects supporting gender equality.
Council will support Respect Victoria in recognising the 16 Days, which started in Victoria on November 25 and will run until December 10 on Human Rights Day.
One of the projects is Let’s Change the Story, which involves delivering packs of 22 books themed around gender equality to all 12 primary schools.
The Clothesline Project will also support women and children who have experienced domestic violence through shirts with painted messages and images created by community members.
Councillor Libby Stapleton said it was important to encourage the community to help create conversations and awareness around gender-based violence.
“We need to shine a light on this topic at every opportunity, inspire change and help create a future where people are safe, equal and respected,” she said.
“Our Change the Story initiative will use storytelling and reading to help engage and educate children about the importance of gender equality, and we have had great responses from schools.
“The Clothesline Project will allow people to be creative in expressing and sharing messages of support and awareness about gender-based violence.
“The display will be on show for each of the 16 days at Wurdi Baierr Stadium and I encourage people to participate and help amplify these messages in our community.”
The Clothesline Project installation will feature contributions from Surf Coast Youth, Torquay Community House and Lorne Community House.
Anglesea Community House also supported the project by showcasing its shirts and messages at the Anglesea Twilight Farmers’ Market on December 1.
More information about the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence is available at respectvictoria.vic.gov.au
