The Peel region’s eighth annual Silent Domestic Violence Memorial March will take place on November 16 with community members walking in memory of lost loved ones as a result of domestic homicide.
The sombre event is a reminder of the ongoing impact of domestic violence in the Peel region and a call for prevention and protection for survivors and those who experience pain and trauma.
The memorial first began in Perth in 1991 when a group of women marched for a better system for themselves, and their families, to be safe and dedicated the march to honour those killed as a result of domestic violence.
In WA in 2017, there were 13 domestic homicides.
Family violence has tragic and long-lasting consequences for the victim and their family, including children who are often silent witnesses to the trauma.
This year’s march will have a special addition with the ZONTA International Club of Peel and City of Mandurah lighting the Mandurah Bridge orange on the eve of the march on November 15.
The lighting of the bridge is part of a worldwide initiative to colour the world orange during November and December to raise awareness of ZONTA International’s support across the globe to eliminate violence against women.
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The Silent Domestic Violence Memorial March is coordinated through essential support services Allambee Counselling and Pat Thomas House.
These organisations offer domestic violence and sexual assault and abuse counselling and key service for women and children impacted by family violence.
Keynote speakers will start the address at 10am at Mewburn Gardens on Sholl Street, Mandurah.
This will be followed by a Silent March along Mandurah Terrace to the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre for light refreshments, with Peel residents warmly invited to attend.
Community members will walk with life size wood figures and white wooden crosses to symbolise those who were murdered this year and those who are still at risk of violence.
Music will be provided by students from the Halls Head College choir.
