Silent March Against Domestic Violence March 2011

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Members for Soroptimist International of Cambridge, Helena, Fremantle, Riverside, and South Perth gathered together to present a united force at the 21^st Annual Silent Domestic Violence Memorial March to remember and honour all those who have lost their lives as a result of domestic and family violence.

Participants in the march met at Stirling Gardens where the proceedings were opened by MC Verity James.  Welcome to country presented by Walter and Doolann Eatts was a wonderful tribute to our aboriginal countrymen.  Walter spoke of his life growing up in a home damaged by domestic violence but also of his ability to see the hurt caused by such violence and not perpetrate the same situation in his married life.  Gina Williams sang two beautiful songs.

Guest speakers included the Honorable Robyn McSweeney MLC, Diana Warnock, patron of the Women’s Council for Domestic and Family Violence Services (WA). The most moving speaker was Angela Rosso who is a survivor of domestic violence.  Angela has moved from being a victim to a victor and is a Funds for Freedom, community campaigner.  Donations to this Campaign will be used to assist women who need to set up a new home, away from domestic violence, to buy whitegoods and general household goods, as many leave with nothing more than the clothes on their backs.

Angela Hartwig, chief Executive Officer of the Women’s Council for Domestic and Family Violence Services (WA) read the names of the nine people killed since the last march.  Roses were placed on coffins by family and friends of the victims, one victim being a one year old child.

The effect of the “Silent March” was evident as we moved through the streets of Perth.  Placards were carried by some of the marchers and the people in Perth showed great respect towards the marchers.

It was truly a moving experience.  Let us hope that some good comes from this public display of support for the victims of domestic violence and the need to raise community awareness that there is help for both the victims and the perpetrators.

Marilyn Fowler
SI Riverside