MARKUS CALLS ON MACQUARIE TO END VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN ON WHITE RIBBON DAY
17-November-2011
Federal Member for Macquarie, Louise Markus MP, is urging people of Macquarie to swear an oath on White Ribbon Day, Friday 25 November, to never commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women.
“Violence against women is a serious and intolerable problem in Australian society,” said Louise Markus.
“The Coalition has a zero tolerance approach to violence against women.
“Keeping women and their families safe from violence is central to ensuring their security and prosperity.
“White Ribbon Day is an important annual reminder for the need to end this violence. I urge all men and women to swear the oath to never commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women.”
Statistics show that one in three Australian women, over the age of 15, experience some form of physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. An estimated 1.2 million in Australia aged 18 and over have experienced sexual assault or threat since the age of 15, and unfortunately this number is not diminishing.
“Violence against women is an unforgivable crime. I am confident the people of Macquarie will join with me in making the oath and to be aware of the need to speak up about domestic violence,” said Mrs Markus.
“I encourage everyone to purchase a white ribbon and wear it on White Ribbon Day to highlight that violence against women is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”