Students from the Chrysalis Girls Group at Mullumbimby High School have been involved in a project that brings awareness to the issue of violence against women. As part of the White Ribbon campaign, students have created images and designs for coasters that will appear in pubs and hotels across Byron Shire during the 16 Days Of Activism from November 25 to December 10.
Take a stand
‘The White Ribbon Campaign is about encouraging men to take a stand and say that violence, in any form, is never acceptable,’ said Neroli Jager of the Women’s Resource Service. ‘The girls have produced some amazing images that reflect how it feels for women experiencing violence and also for men to realise the impact that violence has on women.
‘The Never Violent Never Silent’ coaster project aims to bring awareness to all hotel patrons about the need to not stay silent about this important issue. By bringing the issue to the attention of the public it gives everyone permission to take a stand around not excusing or remaining silent if they see violence occurring in their home, workplace or community.’
The coaster project is an initiative of the Byron Shire Committee Against Domestic Violence (BSCADV) and has been supported by donations from local businesses, including the Mullumbimby Comprehensive Health Centre, the Hotel Brunswick, the Bangalow Hotel, the Great Northern, the Railway Hotel and Byron Shire Council.
Thirty thousand coasters will be distributed across the shire in various hotels, clubs and pubs through to the end of December.
The BSCADV will also be at the Byron markets on December 15 and will have white ribbons for people to wear. The BSCADV will be raising money for the Escape fund, which is used to assist women in the shire who need financial assistance to ensure their safety.
If any businesses would like to obtain coasters, please contact the Women’s Resource Service on 6684 4299.
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