Officers from Central West Police District will take part in the annual White Ribbon march from the corner of Bushman Street to Cooke Park from 11am on Monday, November 26.

To take part, simply attend the Parkes Arbour outside Coles in Clarinda Street just prior to 11am.

Upon arrival at Cooke Park there will be a free barbecue, speeches, and a cake stall. 

Meet at 10.45am for the start of the march at 11am.

Officer in charge of Parkes Police, Chief Inspector David Cooper is calling on everyone in the community to get involved and take the White Ribbon pledge.

“Domestic and family violence is a crime that does not discriminate; it affects people from all walks of life and spans the entire geography of this state, including the Parkes community,” Chief Inspector Cooper said.  

“It is important to remember that domestic violence does not only mean physical assaults; psychological, mental and emotional abuse that intimidates or coerces a person is also a form of violence.

“If you witness domestic violence, or if you’ve noticed the behaviour of a family member, friend or colleague has changed, or if you have concerns for the welfare of someone in your neighbourhood, please pick up the phone and report that information to Crime Stoppers.

“Most importantly, when you come forward to make a report you can remain anonymous, and the details you provide will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

“Never underestimate the significant role you can play in addressing the scourge of domestic and family violence; what you know could save someone’s life.

“Today, our officers from the Central West Police District are wearing white ribbons to stand in support of victims and remind the community that there is no excuse for domestic or family violence,” Chief Inspector Cooper said.

Since August 17, the Parkes Domestic and Family Violence Committee has been running a ‘Say no to domestic violence’ campaign through the Parkes Champion Post in the lead up to White Ribbon Day this year, which is today November 23.

They’ve been spreading their important message and raising awareness by involving local businesses, community groups and organisations, and sporting groups over the last three months.

The committee has been encouraging these groups to stand with them and have their photo taken with their banner. You can view all those involved in the above photo gallery.

White Ribbon Australia acting chief executive officer Delia Donovan said local committees will work alongside ambassadors, advocates and supporters to raise awareness of the steps people can all take to end violence against women and children.

“I urge individuals, workplaces, schools and the broader community to host an event, march or simply have a conversation with their mate about respect because we know violence thrives in disrespect. If we do nothing, nothing will change,” she said.

White Ribbon is an international campaign to end violence against women, which originated in Canada in 1991, and aims to recognise the positive role men play in preventing violence against women.

For more information about White Ribbon visit: http://www.whiteribbon.org.au/

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