‘Everybody’s fight’: Hundreds rally in central Geelong against gendered violence

Hundreds of protesters braved freezing conditions on Sunday demanding urgent political actions after a horrifying spike in violence against women.

Protesters gathered in central Geelong on Sunday to say “enough is enough” and voice their anger after a rise in violence against women across the country.

The “No More” rally, hosted by not-for-profit organisation What Are You Wearing, demanded political action to protect women and children from violence at the hands of men.

At least 54 women have been killed by men in Australia in this year, according to Femicide Watch.

Despite low temperatures and cold rain, more than 200 women, men and children gathered in the Lt Malop St mall.

“No More” rally held in Lt Malop St mall. Picture: Mark Wilson

Attendee Madison said the rally was important because “this is not just a fight for victims or survivors but everybody’s fight”.

“The more people who make noise, hopefully the more the message will be heard,” she said.

Fellow rally-goer Holly said: “We shouldn’t be having to do this, but it’s the least we can do to hopefully put a stop to this.”

Brianna, Madison and Holly at the rally. Picture: Mark Wilson

“No More” rally held in Lt Malop St mall. Picture: Mark Wilson

Attendees brought homemade signs, which included the words “no more violence or murder”, “girls just want to feel safe” and “clothes are not an invitation”.

A number of survivors and experts spoke at the rally, including Geelong-based sexologist and trauma counsellor Stacey Micallef.

“I see daily the devastating impact that family and inter-partner violence is having on our community,” she said.

“I witness first-hand that woman and gender-diverse people are truly being impacted by cis men.”

Stacey Micallef. Picture: Mark Wilson

Emotions were high and attendees comforted each other as the names of each woman murdered at the hands of a man this year was read out.

A flower was placed for each victim before the song “Eagle When She Flies” by Dolly Parton was played.

The group then marched around Market Square, chanting “hey, hey, ho, ho, men’s violence has got to go” and “say it once, say it again, there is no excuse for violent men”.

The rally was one of many held across Victoria at the weekend including in Melbourne and Ballarat.

Originally published as ‘Everybody’s fight’: Hundreds rally in central Geelong against gendered violence