OCTOBER IS
SEXUAL VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH
YOUR VOICE MATTERS
#YourVoiceMatters
This year's theme, Your Voice Matters, is a powerful reminder of the critical role that every individual, organisation, and institution plays in the prevention and awareness of sexual violence. It reminds us of the importance of creating environments where survivors are not only heard but believed, and where voices lead to meaningful change.
By recognising the power of our collective voices, we can challenge harmful norms, advocate for supportive policies, and build a community that stands in solidarity with survivors. This theme encourages us all to use our voices to speak out against sexual violence, support survivors, and work towards a future where such violence is no longer tolerated.
The #YourVoiceMatters message unites our individual voices into the power of collective action
EVENTS CALENDAR
- Thu, 03 OctSouthport Sharks Function Centre03 Oct 2024, 7:00 am – 9:00 amSouthport Sharks Function Centre, Corner Olsen and, Musgrave Ave, Southport QLD 4215, Australia
- Multiple DatesSat, 05 OctNerang05 Oct 2024, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pmNerang, 46/50 Spencer Rd, Nerang QLD 4211, Australia
- Tue, 08 OctSouthport08 Oct 2024, 10:30 am – 18 Oct 2024, 1:30 pmSouthport, 1012 Level 1/42 Marine Parade, Southport QLD 4215, Australia
- Wed, 16 OctSouthport16 Oct 2024, 10:00 am – 12:00 pmSouthport, 129 Queen St, Southport QLD 4215, Australia
- Fri, 18 OctThe Porch Stage18 Oct 2024, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pmThe Porch Stage, Broadwater Parklands, Marine Parade, Southport QLD 4215, Australia
- Wed, 23 OctLocation is TBD23 Oct 2024, 11:45 am – 12:45 pmLocation is TBD23 Oct 2024, 11:45 am – 12:45 pmLocation is TBDEach year during Sexual Violence Awareness Month we hold a Candle Lighting Ceremony and Survivor Speak Out. The lighting of candles symbolises the hope we share for a future free of sexual violence and the support of a community that understands the importance of believing survivors.
HOW CAN YOU USE YOUR VOICE?
AMPLIFY SURVIVOR VOICES
Organisations and communities can take active steps to ensure that survivors' voices are heard and respected. This means creating platforms where survivors can share their experiences safely and confidentially, and ensuring that these voices inform policies, services, and community responses.
PROMOTE A CULTURE OF BELIEF
Believing survivors is crucial in breaking the silence around sexual violence. Organisations and institutions must cultivate a culture where survivors are met with empathy and belief, not skepticism. This involves training staff, volunteers, and community members to respond with compassion and without judgment.
ADVOCATE FOR INCLUSIVE POLICIES
Individuals, institutions and organisations have the power to influence policy changes that reflect the needs and voices of survivors. By advocating for laws and practices that prioritise survivor support and accountability for perpetrators, we can create systemic change that better protects and empowers survivors.
USE VOICE IN EDUCATION
Schools can integrate Your Voice Matters into Relationships and Sexuality Education, teaching students about communication, consent, and respect. This empowers young people to express their boundaries and fosters a culture of mutual respect and safety.
EMPOWER FAMILIES TO TALK OPENLY
Families can create safe spaces for open discussions about relationships, boundaries, and consent. By embracing the power our voices have, parents and caregivers can model healthy communication and teach children to speak up and respect others' voices.
ENCOURAGE COMMUNITY DIALOGUE
Community leaders and organisations should foster open and ongoing conversations about sexual violence. This includes hosting events, workshops, and discussions that not only raise awareness but also encourage community members to speak out against harmful behaviors and support those affected by sexual violence.
SUPPORT SURVIVOR LED INITIATIVES
The broader community and organisations should actively support initiatives led by survivors. Whether through funding, partnerships, or public endorsements, backing these initiatives reinforces the message that survivor voices are valued and integral to the movement against sexual violence.
AWARENESS + ACTION = SOCIAL CHANGE
There are many ways to raise awareness and show your support for Sexual Violence Awareness Month.
Our Digital Supporters Kit is designed to help you use your voice!
Office/School Awareness Posters A3
Social Media Theme Slides #YourVoiceMatters
Email Signature Graphic
Event Graphics (Social Media)
Event Posters A4
We encourage you to host your own events as well as join in on the events being held by Centres Against Sexual Violence around the state.
#YourVoiceMatters #SVAM2024 #StartByBelieving
Follow and tag @gccasv on Facebook and on Instagram.
Crisis: (07) 559 11164
Admin: (07) 559 12397
Email: admin@stopsexualviolence.com
PO BOX 1924, Southport QLD 4215
Gold Coast Centre Against Sexual Violence is on Yugambeh country. In the spirit of respect and humanity, we recognise the Aboriginal peoples of Australia as the traditional owners and custodians of these lands and waters. We pay our respect to them, their cultures and their elders past, present and emerging. We recognise the strength and resilience of First Nations Peoples in fighting for their cultures, communities, and lands.