Melton men, women and children last week took oaths to stand up, speak out and help put an end to domestic violence.
As part of White Ribbon Day events, Djerriwarrh Health Services and Melton council hosted a breakfast at Melton train station last Wednesday.
The station kiosk provided coffees during the morning, with cups bearing the message, “It’s just a joke: No. It’s not. How we speak about women affects how people see and treat them.”
A Djerriwarrh Health Services spokeswoman said the organisation was committed to being a community leader in the prevention of violence against women.
“We believe that violence against women is best prevented by ensuring that respectful attitudes, behaviours and beliefs are shaped in the places where we live, work and study,” she said.
Melton mayor Sophie Ramsey said putting an end to domestic violence started with challenging gender inequality and building greater respect between men and women.
Cr Ramsey encouraged residents to take part in the United Nation’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which started on November 25.
