Perth Woman's All-Night Walk Aims to Spotlight Women's Safety Concerns
A dedicated Perth woman is preparing for an extraordinary all-night walk this International Women's Day, aiming to draw attention to the pervasive issue of women's safety in public spaces. Casey Edmonds will embark on a continuous 10-kilometre loop from sunset on March 7 until sunrise on March 8, creating a powerful visual statement about the challenges women face when moving through their communities after dark.
The Text Me When You Get Home Walk Initiative
The event, named the Text Me When You Get Home Walk, will follow a scenic but symbolic route from McCallum Park in Victoria Park along the Swan River to the Narrows Bridge. This repetitive journey through the night serves as both a personal challenge and a public demonstration, highlighting how many women feel unsafe walking alone after sunset. The walk is designed to raise crucial funds for We Are W/M, a Perth-based not-for-profit organisation that delivers consent education and safety-focused programs to schools, workplaces, and community groups.
Alarming Statistics on Personal Safety
Recent data underscores the urgent need for such awareness initiatives. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Personal Safety Survey from 2021-22, a staggering 63 per cent of women and 31 per cent of men reported avoiding walking alone in their local area after dark. Among those who refrained from nighttime walks, 37 per cent of women and 9.2 per cent of men cited feeling unsafe as their primary reason.
A special investigation conducted by The West Australian last year revealed the profound undercurrent of fear that shapes many women's daily experiences. Women shared various protective measures they employ, including carrying sharp hairpins, heavy water bottles, or pepper spray for security. Some reported keeping screwdrivers in their cars or never leaving home without tracking devices like AirTags so loved ones could monitor their whereabouts.
Personal Motivation Behind the Walk
Ms Edmonds, who began volunteering with We Are W/M last year, explained that her motivation stems from lifelong experiences shared by countless women. "Like most girls, I learnt the rules early," she reflected. "Wait for your brother to walk home from school. Never leave the nightclub alone. Hold your keys between your fingers when you walk. Call someone so you are not really alone. If you see someone ahead of you, cross the road."
She continued with personal testimony: "I have been followed. I have been yelled at. I have felt that stomach drop that tells you something is wrong. I have lived overseas and I have lived in Perth, and the rules apply everywhere. As I have gotten older, I have realised it does not matter where you live or how old you are."
Ms Edmonds described the walk as "a symbol of solidarity, of listening and of our commitment to creating a future where saying 'text me when you're home' is no longer necessary." She emphasised: "I'm walking to start conversations about why safety is not experienced equally — and why education is essential in changing this reality."
Community Support and Participation Opportunities
Nicolette Beard, co-founder and executive director of We Are W/M, expressed strong support for Ms Edmonds' initiative. "When Casey approached us with this idea, it immediately resonated," she said. "This walk is a meaningful opportunity to raise awareness, spark conversation, and support the ongoing work of We Are W/M."
Ms Beard extended an invitation to the community: "If you have ever texted a friend when you got home, and if you have ever waited for that message; if you believe women deserve to feel safe simply going for a walk, I invite you to support this cause."
The event offers multiple ways for community members and businesses to participate. Fellow advocates can register to sponsor a 10-kilometre walking round, while businesses can provide in-kind community sponsorships of food, equipment, or refreshments. Individuals have the option to make one-off donations or join Ms Edmonds for a lap during the overnight walk.
The Text Me When You Get Home Walk will commence at 5:30pm on Saturday, March 7, concluding with a celebratory barbecue and ice baths at sunrise on March 8. This unique event promises to create meaningful dialogue while supporting vital educational programs that address safety disparities in our communities.
