International nonviolence month runs throughout October, from October 2nd till November 1st.
CSU is supporting nonviolence month and has pledged “against violence in order to bring about positive change in the communities within which we work and study”, aiming to “empower our students and staff as social change advocates with knowledge, innovation and a real sense of community”
What is nonviolence month?
Nonviolence is the belief that all of us should be able to live in safety, free from all forms of violence.
Nonviolence means celebrating our common humanity and the natural environment that sustains us. It is a challenge to structural violence, utilising reflective practice based on promoting education and understanding.
International Centre of Nonviolence (ICON) Australia is the sponsor of nonviolence month.
Why should I care?
against women)
- Over 12 months, on average, one woman is killed every week as a result of intimate partner violence (Chan and Payne 2013)
- One in five women over 18 have been stalked during their lifetime (ABS 2013)
- One in three women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence perpetrated by someone known to them (ABS 2013)
- Intimate partner violence is the leading contributor to death, disability & ill-health in Australian women aged 15-44 (Victorian Health Promotion Foundation 2014)
- Domestic and family violence is the principle cause of homelessness for women and their children (AIHW 2013)
- In Australia, one in four children are exposed to domestic violence (Australian Domestic and Family Violence Clearinghouse 2011).
What can I do?
- Have a look at the student services webpage of resources, inspiration, research and publications around nonviolence.
- Reject attitudes, behaviours and language that create a culture in which violence against others is accepted.
- Treat everyone as equals (and humans!) and with respect in all aspects of life.
- Speak up and step up when you see or hear of people using violence against others
- Practice peaceful conflict resolution
- Manage unhealthy stress so that you create an environment of safety and relaxation where you are less likely to behave violently or voice violence.
- Embody and teach constructive patterns of emotional reactivity in the children around you. It will hopefully stick with them for life!
Further resources:
http://www.whiteribbon.org.au/update/white-ribbon-ambassadors-speak-out-about-national-survey-results,