Co-founder of White Ribbon Day Dr Michael Kaufman to attend Lakemba march

In 1989, a student at the University of Montreal massacred 14 of his fellow female students - this tragedy sparked White Ribbon Day.

Dr Michael Kaufman, co-founder of White Ribbon Day. Picture: Mark Calleja

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In 1989, a student at the University of Montreal massacred 14 of his fellow female students.

His actions traumatised Canada, and in response, a group of men in Toronto determined to stop men’s violence against women, started the White Ribbon organisation.

One of those men was Dr Michael Kaufman, and the co-founder will be a special guest at the Lakemba White Ribbon Day march, on this Friday.

The annual White Ribbon Day march from Lakemba to Punchbowl aims to raise awareness about domestic violence.

At last year’s march, Bulldogs coach Des Hasler during the White Ribbon March from Gilles street to Parry Park, Lakemba. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Now in its fourth year, the November 25 event organised by Campsie police, is one of Australia’s biggest and draws crowds of up to 3000 people.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Albury, of Campsie police, said it is a testament to the community how much the event has grown.

The 2015 White Ribbon March from Gilles street to Parry Park, Lakemba. Picture: Jonathan Ng

“There’s a real surge for change in this area of Sydney and we’re leading the charge to show the rest of the state and Australia that our community can come together and speak out about this issue,” Insp Albury said.

“Despite cultural and religious differences in the community, the issue of violence for women transcends race, religion, culture, status – it affects all parts of society.”

This year’s event will again be supported by ­players from NRL club the Bulldogs and AFL club GWS Giants.

The White Ribbon Day Lakemba march will start at Gillies St at 5.30pm, head along Haldon St and finish at Parry Park.