RAIN, hail or shine, Campbell Street is set to become a sea of orange on Saturday for the Walk Against Family Violence.
The walk will mark the start of the annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, a global initiative aimed at bringing awareness to gender inequalities and eradicate violence against women and girls around the world.
Northern Victoria Domestic Violence Housing Group deputy chair Marie Schlemme told The Guardian the walk was a way to “show up” for those victims of family violence.
“We walk because this is a national crisis,” she said.
“We walk because gendered violence affects us all. We walk because violence against women and family violence is preventable. We walk because change is possible.
“It is an act of hope to create the change needed to end this violence.”
Campbell Street will be decorated in orange items, including 250 tulle flowers made by volunteers. Walk participants were also encouraged to dress in the colour orange.
“Orange symbolises a brighter future, and a world free from violence against women and girls,” Ms Schlemme said.
The walk will start at 11am starting at the Rutherford Street corner and head down Campbell Street to end at the clock tower.
A free sausage sizzle will be provided by the Swan Hill Lions Club, and there will also be a few short speeches to provide important information about where victims of family violence can get help, as well as red flags to look out for.
While some rain had been forecast for Saturday, Ms Schlemme hoped that would not be a deterrent.
“If there is rain, bring a jacket and an umbrella and participate in the walk – a shower of rain is nothing compared to family violence,” she said.
People who need urgent help because of sexual assault, domestic or family violence should call 000. Support services are available through The Orange Door Mallee on 1800 290 943.
