On 28 July 2024 speakers at the 54, No More rally in Brisbane Magan-djin demand justice and more funding for victims’ families after the murder of 54 women and nine children during this year alone (only 7 months into 2024). They emphasize the need for change in response to the violence, while expressing gratitude towards organizations and community groups supporting the rally. The rally was organised by the What were you wearing? Group and was part of a national mobilisation.
Survivors described horrendous acts of violence against them. Volunteers read out the names of 54 murdered women during by a flower-laying ceremony.
I can think of three practical ways of preventing violence against women. One is to provide refuges for women suffering domestic violence. Another is the planned intervention my neighbours when they witness or hear abuse of women next door or in their street. And finally the intervention of union members witnessing abuse of women at work by the boss.
First Nations speakers shared personal experiences of historical and present trauma and advocated for change, emphasizing the need for healing and reconciliation. Sarah Williams, CEO of What Were You Wearing? Australia, shared her personal story of surviving sexual abuse and leading a volunteer-based organization to support others.
Register for the first Healing Hearts support group in Brisbane for survivors on August 7th. (Sarah Williams, CEO of What Were You Wearing in Australia).
Continue making noise until the government increases funding for prevention initiatives and holds perpetrators accountable.
Speakers highlighted the need for ethno-specific funded services for South Asian women, who are underrepresented in statistics and face unique cultural barriers to seeking help.
Ian Curr
1 Aug 2024