Staff, colleagues, and supporters of SafeHome Alliance attended this year’s Premier’s White Ribbon Day Breakfast, which was held on 25th November at Brisbane Convention Centre, Southbank.
White Ribbon Australia’s vision is to create a nation where every woman is free from all forms of men’s violence and abuse.
It is part of a global focus to mobilise men and boys and the community in a social movement to take action to eliminate men’s violence and abuse against women. It does this through programs that teach men and boys to recognise the drivers of gendered violence and then be accountable and take action in their own communities to eliminate gendered violence.
SafeHome Alliance founder Laura Valenti with inspirational Keynote Speaker and DFV survivor Simone O’Brien.
The theme of this year’s Premier’s White Ribbon Day Breakfast was coercive control and featured an incredibly moving keynote speech by Simone O’Brien, a courageous survivor who almost died at the hands of her partner during the time she was trying to escape the abusive relationship.
She explained how she is using her personal story of determination, resilience, courage, and strength, to champion non-violence against women and children. Simone was truly inspirational.
The morning was MC’d by Andrew Lofthouse, Nine News Queensland presenter, and Premier Palaszczuk warmly welcomed attendees.
There was also a thought-provoking panel discussion of prominent ambassadors for change:
• Adair Donaldson, Director, Donaldson Law
• Sergeant Adrian Geary, Officer in Charge, Gordonvale Police Station
• Matt Pronger, Co-Director, Workplace Respect
They shared their insights and diverse experiences regarding the behaviours that perpetrate coercive control and ways to appropriately respond to all forms of domestic and family violence.
SafeHome Alliance is a staunch supporter of White Ribbon in its mission to promote dialogue and action by men to prevent gendered violence against women.
