‘Evil thrives in silence’: Thousands attend Hobart March 4 Justice
Australian of the Year Grace Tame made an impassioned speech at Hobart’s March 4 Justice, encouraging Tasmanians to acknowledge and stand up to abuse. WATCH THE VIDEO >>
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THE cheers of thousands resonated throughout Parliament Lawns as one of Australia’s most prolific advocates made an impassioned speech as part of a national day of action against gendered violence.
The March 4 Justice was sparked by rape allegations in the Federal Parliament, with rallies taking place in towns and cities across the country.
Australian of the Year Grace Tame said we may have a small community, but Tasmania is leading the nation.
“That is a testament to the power of solidarity. It’s a testament to the power of hope, resilience and a refusal to let fear stop us from doing anything,” she said.
“As often is the case when an issue that has been shrouded in darkness for such a long time is suddenly thrust into the light, there’s widespread shock and disbelief over how something so evil could happen and not just happen, but happens so ubiquitously.
“And the answer is so plain and simple: silence. Evil thrives in silence.
“There is an imbalance, obviously that’s why we’re here today. Women are worse off, but men are not the enemy — corrupt behaviour always has and always will be the enemy.
“The power belongs to us, and that power is love.”
Ms Tame encouraged everyone to value their contribution.
“I encourage you to think of your contribution not as an isolated gesture, but as a little domino in a long unending line of dominoes,” she said.
Also speaking at the event was Tasmanian Women’s Legal Service CEO Yvette Cehtel, Union Tasmania leader Jess Munday, gendered violence survivor Natalie Hocking and Environment Tasmania’s Laura Kelly.
Tasmanian Aboriginal activist Nala Mansell began the day’s proceedings, and said we have had enough.
“Today we join in the many thousands who are calling for an end to discrimination, inequality and violence against woman, and to pledge to our sisters, our daughters and our nieces that no longer will their gender put them in a high risk category of abuse, powerlessness or domination,” she said.
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