Each year, from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December, World Human Rights Day, the 16 Days of Activism campaign calls for action against one of the world’s most persistent violations of human rights – violence against women.
The theme is Respect Women: Call It Out.
During the 16 Days of Activism, people around the world unite to raise awareness about gender-based violence, challenge discriminatory attitudes and call for improved laws and services to end violence against women for good.
The 16 Days of Activism campaign is an initiative that Council has supported since 2018. Through involvement with Respect Victoria’s "Respect: Call it Out" campaign, community and staff events have been delivered to raise awareness of gender-based violence and the link to gender equality.
2023 events included:
- Financial Abuse Forum
- Candlelight Installation
- Rotary Truck Show Parade
- Self Defence Class for girls, women & non-binary people
- Refuge for Women: short film & discussion
- Dhelkaya Health, Castlemaine Library and Mt Alexander Falcons also have events on during the campaign
Previous events and activities have included:
- Candlelight vigil at Castlemaine Town Hall (2021)
- Gender Equality Quiz for council staff (2018 and 2019)
- Local business orange window display competition (2018 and 2019)
- Respect : See it Through art exhibition (2020)
- Break the Chain – 1 Billion Rising flash mob dance - VIDEO (2019 and 2020)
- Family Violence community vigil at Victory Park (2020)
- Portraits of Respect campaign (2018, 2019 and 2020)
For more information about the 16 Days of Activism campaign or for ideas and resources to get involved please visit the Safe and Equal website.