Men speak out against violence on White Ribbon Day

25/11/05
Men across Western Australia are encouraged to speak out against violence towards women to mark the United Nation's annual White Ribbon Day.
Community Development Minister Sheila McHale today spoke at a rally to commemorate the event - the largest effort by men worldwide to end male violence against women.
"Men can play a strong role in getting the message out that violence against women is not acceptable and cannot be justified," Ms McHale said.
"Family and domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse leave deep emotional scars that can last a lifetime.
"No-one, especially women and children, deserves to live in fear, be controlled and tormented or forced into sex."
The Minister said White Ribbon Day marked the UN's International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
"Male violence is not just an issue for women but one that affects men's relationships with their wives, daughters, girlfriends, mothers and their friends," she said.
"The Gallop Government is committed to reducing family and domestic violence by supporting programs such as Communicare's 'Breathing space' initiative, which provides a therapeutic community for violent men in intimate relationships.
"The Men's Project conducted by DCD's Family and Domestic Violence Unit also helps men who are victims or perpetrators of violence."
Further information about White Ribbon Day is available at http://www.unifem.org.au.
Women's Domestic Violence Helpline
Metro callers: 9223 1188 or Country callers: 1800 007 339 (freecall STD)
Men's Domestic Violence Helpline
Metro callers: 9223 1199 or Country callers: 1800 000 599 (freecall STD)
Minister's office: 9213 6900