WOMEN and children’s rights to walk the streets after dark without fear of intimidation, assault or sexual violence will be the message taken to the Hawkesbury community as part of the annual Reclaim The Night event.
The event is organised by the Hawkesbury Action Network Against Domestic Violence (HANADV), Hawkesbury Sexual Violence Prevention Network (HSVPN) and The Women’s Cottage.
“The research and statistics indicate that one in five women will experience sexual assault in their life time and one in three women have experienced domestic violence since the age of 15,” said Renee Xerri, an anti-violence project worker at The Women’s Cottage.
“On average, one Australian woman per week is killed by a partner or ex partner. Women and children demand the right to be safe in their own community at all times.
“All women and children in the community are encouraged to come along, and supportive men in the Hawkesbury community are also invited to march to highlight the fact that safety is a community concern and requires a community response.”
The walk will take place on Thursday, October 26. Walkers are encouraged to meet at The Women’s Cottage at 22 Bosworth Street, Richmond, at 5.30pm for a 6pm march to Richmond Park Rotunda.
After the march, there will be various free activities and entertainment for adults and children, including a BBQ, face-painting, and a drumming workshop.
Call The Women’s Cottage on 4578 4190 for more information.