White Ribbon Foundation Swear & Wear

A lot of swearing going on thisWhite Ribbon Day 25 November The White Ribbon Foundation asks all Aussie men to 'Swear & Wear' this Thursday 25 November to mark White Ribbon Day, the international day that aims to end violence against women by encouraging men and boys to take positive action to create change.

There are hundreds of events happening all around Australia and thousands of people and businesses selling White Ribbon merchandise to support the cause on the day. Even the Prime Minister is involved in a swearing ceremony in Canberra on Thursday.

In support of this significant day, White Ribbon's largest official event being held is:

EVENT: Melbourne Town Hall Gala Lunch

Keynote speaker - Dr. Michael Kaufman, the Canadian co-founder of White Ribbon Day and distinguished speaker, writer, and consultant on gender issues. Dr. Kaufman will be launching a new research report by Dr. Michael Flood; "Where Men Stand: Men's roles in ending violence against women".

Hosted by Councilor Ken Ong , in attendance at the event will be 150+ guests including: Mayor of the City of Whitehorse, Councillor Bill Pemberton; Federal Court Judge and White Ribbon Ambassador, the Hon. Shane Marshall; ACTU Secretary Jeff Lawrence; Managing Director of Bunnings, John Gillam; Acting Commander, Victoria Police, Mr Andrew Crisp; CEO of the Victorian Local Government Association, Maree McPherson; White Ribbon Ambassador of the Year Nick Mazzarella and representatives from the ARL, the Koori Justice Unit, The Jewish Taskforce Against Family Violence, Berry Street , the Coroner's Court of Victoria, Victorian State Government, Department of Education and many more.

The focus of the luncheon is on what men and organisations can and do to contribute to the cause, through raising awareness about the prevention of violence against women, as well as evidence of what is achieved when they do.

About White Ribbon
One in three Australian women will be a victim of physical or sexual violence or abuse in her lifetime. They are the mothers, sisters, daughters or friends of men across Australia.

The White Ribbon Campaign is supported by the White Ribbon Foundation as a national Campaign to prevent and reduce violence and abuse of women. It is unique because of the focus on encouraging men to take the lead in their immediate communities and networks, by speaking out about violence and challenging the attitudes that allow violence in our society.

You can join the ranks of men supporting the Campaign by swearing an oath "never to commit, never excuse or remain silent about violence" at www.myoath.com.au.

Then wear a white ribbon on White Ribbon Day, November 25, to show the world that they've stepped up and sworn. People can purchase ribbons and wristbands online at www.whiteribbonday.org.au or in store at Suzanne Grae, The Body Shop, Lifeline Stores, AHG Dealerships and the Salvos Stores around Australia.

For more information about White Ribbon Day visit www.whiteribbonday.org.au