By Kyra Gillespie
Cardinia has again proved to be a socially conscious community by uniting for Outlook’s White Ribbon fundraising morning tea.
The event was a huge success with guest speakers, entertainment, a trash and treasure and morning tea.
“We have raised a total of $1356 so far, with more funds to come in from the Environmental and Employment work sites,” said Outlook volunteer organiser Sarah Kelly.
Outlook CEO Sam Sondhi commenced the day with an acknowledgement of country and discussed the important role individuals and communities play in breaking the cycle of domestic violence.
“Silence is no longer the acceptable response. Don’t stand by, stand up,” he said.
MP and White Ribbon ambassador Brian Paynter discussed his own role in tackling family violence.
“I went to my parliament and asked for it to be a White Ribbon workplace, and now we are undergoing the accreditation process. Up to 2000 people will receive that training as a result.
“All it took was for one person to ask.
“Someone must take that initial step – be that person in your workplace.”
Mr Paynter highlighted the pervasiveness of gender-based violence which he faces every day raising his three daughters.
“One of my daughters wanted to get up at 6am and go for jogs during VCE, but we couldn’t let that happen because it would be dark and she would be alone. My mates who have sons don’t have these conversations with their sons.
“When my daughters take a taxi, they have to take a picture of the driver’s photo ID card and talk to us all the way home. My mates who have sons don’t have these conversations with their sons.
“When my daughters take the train, we tell them to make sure they park close to the station and to make sure they are under a light. My mates who have sons simply don’t have these conversations with their sons,” Mr Paynter said.
Next to speak was Senior Sergeant Graeme Stanley and disability activist Tricia Malowney.
Ms Malowney outlined the importance of including people with disabilities in discussions around domestic violence.
“Having a disability creates an added intersection to domestic violence.”
“A woman with a disability is twice as likely to experience violence than a non-disabled woman.”
Entertaining guests for the morning was Beaconhills College performing arts scholar Christina Keen and Outlook’s U-Bute Uke Group.
All funds raised from the event will go towards domestic violence prevention programs in schools, workplaces and in the broader community.
