Hundreds of people are expected to take a very public stance against domestic and gender based violence by joining the Community March For Change down down Castle Street, Castle Hill on Friday, May 3rd.
Organised by a community committee it has the support of The Hills Police Area Command. The last march against violence was held along Castle St in 2018 and involved hundreds of community groups and high school students.
Hills Police Commander Supt Naomi Moore said there was no simple solution to curbing violence _ “we need to work together”.
She said: “On average (each month) we are having reported to us 30 domestic assaults, 20 breaches of apprehended violence orders and around 80 other domestic-related incidents (not an assault).
“We are seeing young people involved in domestic violence – as offenders, victims and witnesses and this is of concern”.
Former Hills Mayor Michelle Byrne, one of the organisers of the Community march, said it is important to get young people involved in the march.
“Reducing DV requires a “whole of community approach” and that includes our schools … it is crucial if we are serious about breaking down intergenerational cycles of domestic and family violence and putting an end to the increasing rates of sexual assaults.
An estimated 4.2million Australian adults have experienced, violence, emotional abuse or economic abuse by a partner… with 27% of women and 15% of men having experience violence or abuse by a partner …. Nothing is going to change unless as a community we push for change and a future that is free of domestic violence for all,” she said.
“I encourage everyone in the Hills to join us at the march for change and to be part of the movement to end domestic and family violence in our community. “
People are asked to meet at the entrance of the Castle Tower’s Purple Car Park in Castle Place on May 3rd. The march down Castle St will begin at 7am sharp.
At the end of the march there will be a forum for students at Castle Hill RSL who will be shown a video addressing family violence that was written by Kellyville High students and played by professional actors.
For everyone else on the march there will be a barbecue at Castle Hill Bowling Club. There is no but register by scanning the code to give an idea for catering purposes.
If you have concerns about family violence call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732). If you are in danger call 000.
