The #WomensWave is coming.
On January 20th 2019, the Women’s March will take place in Sydney’s Hyde Park, Melbourne’s Alexandra Gardens, and Brisbane’s King George Square in a historical show of solidarity and presence.
The event aims to harness the power of everyone present to change the culture of violence against women for the next generation.
Australia’s culture of violence against women is a crisis. It is rooted in a widespread cultural acceptance that the values, roles and rights of women are lesser than those of men.
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The Women’s March is attempting to change this culture so that the next generation of women can live their lives to their fullest potential, free from intimidation, harassment and violence. Women have the right to be safe, claim their space, be respected and have their voices heard.
“The #WomensWave is coming and we’re sweeping the world forward with us,” the announcement for the 2019 March reads. “Violence against women is a global epidemic. It’s in the headlines and in our homes. It’s in the media and in the streets. It happens where we work, where we study, where we walk, and where we play.”
The event, which will coincide with marches around the world, will continue on from the momentum of the past two years since US President Donald Trump was sworn into office – the original catalyst for the first Women’s March held in Washinton D.C.
Focusing in on violence against women, 2019’s march aims to bring light to issues including domestic violence and rape culture, both of which were particularly prominent topics, and problems, for women in 2018.
RELATED: Australia Has Introduced Domestic Violence Leave For Employees
Sydney’s event will see media personality and host of Is Australia Sexist? Yumi Stynes MC. Featured speakers include Bri Lee, Rae Johnston, Bhenji Ra, Jane Brock and Aunty Norma.
There will also be performances by Des Fleurs, Malaika Green and Body Type.
How can I get involved?
If you’re interested in participating in the march, all you have to do is turn up at the destination (in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne).
At each march, the hosts will be organising a “human chain” where participants will link hands as a show of solidarity.
Founder of the Sydney march, Kate Taylor, said joining hands was a symbol of solidarity and determination to keep forcing change.
“We have weathered the backlash and emerged unbroken to say: we want a safer world.”
While we wait for the event this weekend, here are some inspiring shots from last year’s event:
See here for tickets.
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