Community Mourns Growing Toll of Gender-Based Violence
Under the blazing midday sun in Wollongong's CBD, Michelle Glasgow's voice trembled as she read aloud the names of 42 women and children killed in violent attacks across Australia this year. The general manager of Women Illawarra clutched a white paper listing the ever-growing death toll during Tuesday's rose vigil in MacCabe Park.
The fourth annual event marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, also launching the United Nations' 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence. Dozens of community members gathered as Ms Glasgow read each name, with a rose laid on the grass for every life lost.
Alarming Statistics Reveal Worsening Crisis
Domestic violence assaults in the Illawarra region have surged by 12.4 percent over the past two years, jumping from 1003 to 1127 annual incidents. Even more concerning, sexual assault cases have increased by 17.2 percent, rising from 443 to 519 reported cases.
"We see the impacts of this violence in our community on a day-to-day basis," Ms Glasgow said, her voice choked with emotion at times. "When you put a name and a face and an age, and humanise the victims of these homicides in Australia, which are not going down, it's heartbreaking. You never get used to it."
The vigil honoured women from all walks of life - rich and poor, young and old, from cities and remote country towns. Some names on the list remained unidentified, with Ms Glasgow explaining that some cases are still under investigation or involve Indigenous victims in remote areas.
Call to Action: How Communities Can Help
Ms Glasgow delivered a powerful message about community responsibility in addressing gender-based violence. "If you or your circle of friends or family have not been a victim of violence, you are in the minority," she stated.
She urged Illawarra residents to take concrete actions:
- Educate themselves about gender-based violence
- Learn about local resources and support services
- Speak up when they witness problematic behaviour
- Maintain connection with women who may be isolated
- Share information during the 16 Days of Activism campaign
"You can call it out in a very gentle way," Ms Glasgow advised. "But most women experiencing violence, particularly at the hands of somebody that says that they love them, are very isolated, so don't lose connection with them and just be very gentle in your support."
The list of 42 women killed this year serves as a sobering reminder of the urgent need for action against gender-based violence in Australian communities. As police and domestic violence authorities point to concerning factors like men's attitudes, misogyny, and pornography culture, the Illawarra community stands united in demanding change.
