Reducing Domestic and Family Violence
Last year, 600 people attended and this year’s event hopes to see 1,000 Top Enders show their support this Sunday, 4 October 2015 at the Darwin Sailing Club.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Jamie Chalker said it is a sad but honest fact that the Northern Territory has the highest incidence of domestic violence compared to other jurisdictions. Police denounce violence, aggression and abuse being directed towards any person however there is an undeniable reality around the significant number of women who suffer from such acts. Events like the White Ribbon Run give people an opportunity to raise awareness and say no to domestic violence. We must work together as a community to improve the safety of women in particular because we know the statistics tell us we can and should do better.
“In the last 12 months, NT Police have responded to over 21,000 incidents relating to domestic violence.
“We encourage everyone to come and participate in the run or walk on Sunday and show that you stand up and say ‘NO MORE’ to violence against women,” he said.
A/Deputy Commissioner Chalker is an Ambassador for White Ribbon and explains that the NT Police Force supports this cause and everyone has a responsibility to report domestic violence.
“I’m not an Ambassador because I think the white ribbon pin looks good on my uniform. I am absolutely committed to eradicating domestic violence in the Northern Territory and I need the community’s support.
“When you see people hurting or you see them in trouble, you need to step in and tell someone so this doesn’t happen again,” he said.
The White Ribbon Run Darwin will take place at the Darwin Sailing Club for a 4km run or 2km walk at 7:30am You can register online at www.pfes.nt.gov.au or on the day from 6am. Registrations are $5 each or $20 for a team.
