16 Days of Activism: Join the Movement to End Gender-Based Violence
The 16 Days of Activism is a global campaign that runs from 25 November, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day. This year’s theme, #SAFE.EVERYWHERE.ALWAYS, calls for urgent action to ensure the safety of women and girls—whether at home, in the workplace or in public spaces.
With 1 in 3 women globally experiencing physical or sexual violence, this campaign is more important than ever. In Australia, UN Women leads the charge, striving for a world where gender-based violence is eliminated and safety is a right for all.
Tragically, in 2023, 67 women lost their lives to gender-based violence in Australia. By 28th October 2024, that number stands at 59, with 21 of these women in NSW alone. These are more than just statistics; they are lives that should never have been lost.
Creating Local Impact
This year, Pop In is taking action with a series of community events and initiatives under the 16 Days of Activism campaign. Together with Ngununggula Gallery and Springett’s Arcade, we are proud to present Empty Chairs at Empty Tables, an evocative art installation designed to honour the women in NSW who have lost their lives to gender-based violence over the past year.
Unveiling on 25 November 2024, at Springett’s Arcade in Bowral, this installation features painted chairs, each symbolising a woman who lost her life. These chairs, crafted by survivors, local artists and community leaders, will be displayed across the Southern Highlands for the duration of the 16 Days.
Each chair tells a story, amplifying the urgent need for action to prevent future tragedies. The installation will culminate in an online auction, where member of the community can bid on the chairs. All proceeds will go toward supporting Pop In’s critical services for women and children affected by domestic violence.
Display Dates: Springett’s Arcade, 25-30 November
Extended Display: Throughout local businesses in the Southern Highlands, 1-10 December
Online Auction: Bid for a chair, and support Pop In’s services from 30 November to 10 December
Artist Catherine Hanes
With special thanks to:
Get Involved
Pop In invites everyone in the community to join the 16 Days of Activism by getting involved in our events and initiatives:
Register to participate: in one of our painting workshops. Click here for further information.
Attend our events: Participate in wellness sessions, art therapy classes, educational seminars and community discussions at our Moss Vale premises throughout the 16 Days.
Visit the art installation: Experience the Empty Chairs at Empty Tables exhibit at Springett’s Arcade or view the chairs displayed across the Southern Highlands.
Bid in the online auction: From 30 November to 10 December, bid on a chair to support Pop In’s essential services for women and children who are impacted by domestic violence.
Attend the Forum: on Dec 04 attend the DV Forum in Bowral and hear how the sector is addressing DV in the Southern Highlands.
Spread the message: Follow and share our campaign updates on social media to raise awareness and inspire action.
For more information and a full schedule of events, visit www.popin.org.au and follow us on social media.
Together, we can end gender-based violence. Let’s take action today for a safer, more just tomorrow.
Building a Safer Community
December 04 - 9.30am - 12.30pm Bradman Museum, Bowral
Pop In’s initiatives extend beyond art. We are pleased to convene the Southern Highlands Domestic Violence Community Forum during the 16 Days of Activism. The community forum will aid to deepen the community’s understanding of the complex issues faced by women and children navigating Domestic and Family Violence.
The Forum will be held at The Bradman Museum theatre on Wednesday December 4, 2024, from 9.30 am to 12.30pm and will include a short break for morning tea.
To book tickets please click here: Southern Highlands Domestic Violence Forum
