On 25 November every year, the world pauses to reflect on the endemic levels of violence committed against women and girls.
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is an opportunity to pave the way towards change by uniting against violence.
Take action as a Chapter
IEU Chapters are encouraged to take the following actions in support of the day:
- Print out our International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women poster and put it on your notice board to raise awareness;
- Wear an item of orange clothing on 25 November (the colour chosen by the UN to represent the day);
- Send a (socially-distanced) Chapter photo to communications@ieuqnt.org.au to be featured on social media; and
- Consider making a donation to support women and girls across the world to live free from violence via the UN Women Australia website.
The statistics everyone should know
Sadly, it remains the case that 1 in 3 women and girls will experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime.
In Australia, one woman is killed every week by a current or former partner and the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened these rates of violence.
Beneath these statistics are the individual stories of women and girls whose lives have been indefensibly marred by violence.
Together, we can work to change these statistics and to change the story for women and girls.
Encouraging discussion in the classroom
Teachers may choose to educate their class about the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and the effects of domestic violence.
With the support of their principal, members are encouraged to discuss the effects of domestic violence with high school students; professional judgement in the suitability of these discussions with younger students should be exercised.
Teachers are reminded that any student disclosures arising from the classroom discussions can be supported by school counsellors, chaplains, nurses or psychologists.
Any relevant school policies regarding reporting requirements where students reveal abuse should also be adhered to.
Learn more
Violence against women and girls remains one of the most widespread and devastating human rights violations in the world and it often goes unreported due to stigma and shame.
To learn more about the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, visit the UN Women website.
Access support
If you are concerned about yourself, a colleague or a student you can access 24-hour telephone counselling through any of these providers:
1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732
Lifeline: 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au
Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800 or www.kidshelp.com.au
