A special candle-lighting vigil will be held in Cleveland’s Bloomfield Park on Wednesday 3 May to remember those affected by domestic and family violence.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Wednesday’s vigil, during Domestic and Family Violence Protection Month, provided an opportunity to gather as a community to reflect on the more than 100 women, children and men who each year lose their lives as a result of domestic and family violence.
“It is also an opportunity to show those who continue to be troubled by domestic violence, as well as those who confront this brutality as members of our frontline services, that we stand with them,’’ Cr Williams said.
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“Our candles symbolise not only those affected, but the light we as a community, must shine on this secretive and insidious violence. They burn as beacons of hope.
“I encourage everyone to come along and be part of this moving event.”
Deputy Mayor Wendy Boglary, who is also speaking at the event, said the vigil, from 5.15pm for a 5.30pm start, would encourage Redlanders to continue spreading the message of non-violence and raise awareness of the work of WAVSS, the regional domestic violence service.
“We must continue spreading the message that non-violence is the norm rather than the exception, and that family abuse is never OK,’’ Cr Boglary said.
Cr Williams said the vigil would be followed by the third Dîner en Rouge at a secret Redlands location on Saturday 13 May.
“Redland City Council is proud to partner with local Zonta clubs, Soroptimist International, Rotary Club of Cleveland, Redland Foundation and other local domestic and family violence service advocates on this important event to raise awareness and funds for those affected by family and domestic abuse,” she said.
Candle lighting vigil
When: 5.15pm for 5.30pm start, Wednesday 3 May
Where: Bloomfield park, Bloomfield Street, Cleveland.
Dîner en Rouge
When: From 5pm, Saturday 13 May
Where: Meet at Cleveland’s Redland Performing Arts Centre, Middle Street, Cleveland.
Tickets: $175 each or $1700 for a table of 10 (including GST). Bookings – Online through the RPAC website; in person at RPAC Box Office, 2–16 Middle Street, Cleveland; by phone on 3829 8131.
