Media Release
3 May 2021
On Wednesday 4 May 2022 landmarks around Victoria will be illuminated in purple, and a Candlelight Vigil held to mark National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day.
More than 60 buildings in Melbourne, Geelong and regional Victoria will light up to draw attention to this national tragedy. These include the Arts Centre, Bolte Bridge, Melbourne Town Hall, The Rialto, AAMI Park, the Victoria Police Building, Geelong Arts Centre, and the Yallourn and Loy Yang Power Stations.
“Over the last ten years, an average of one woman a week has been killed by her current or former partner. One child has been killed a fortnight over that same period by family violence,” said Rita Butera, CEO of Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre.
“Each number is a person. They have family and friends who love them. There are communities left devastated. We must take the time to remember them, honour them, and stand in solidarity together and say – ‘No more’,” she said.
This year’s Candlelight Vigil will be held at the new Family Violence Memorial Gardens in St. Andrews Place, Melbourne, and livestreamed to support local events or private participation from home.
“We want people to take part in any way they can, and what feels safe for them,” said Ms. Butera. “This issue touches so many and we want to make sure these lives are not forgotten.”
You can join the Vigil by registering here (livestream or in-person) or you can post a message on social media using #LightACandle2022. In addition, you can light a virtual candle and leave a message of support here. Find out more at https://safesteps.org.au/candlelight-vigil-2022/
If you or someone you know is experiencing or afraid of family and domestic violence, please call Safe Steps for support on 1800 015 188 (24 hours/7 days a week) or visit safesteps.org.au.
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Contact: media@safesteps.org.au
0418 457 390
