Colleen Symington wants as many people as possible to join her in a personal walk.
The Georges River councillor is urging residents to join her in the 'No Domestic Violence' walk through Kogarah next Friday.
Councillor Colleen Symington gave a moving personal account at the October 28 council meeting of her experience of domestic violence, which has affected her life and called on Georges River Council to continue its support of initiatives to eliminate domestic violence in the local area.
"We don't talk enough about domestic violence," Cr Symington said.
"I've reached a point where I'm happy to talk about my own experience so that other people talk about what is happening.
"My first childhood memories are of hearing my mother's screams. Broken doors, smashed dinner plates and assaults were the norm in my house growing up. To his friends my father was a good bloke, but behind closed doors he was an abusive alcoholic," Cr Symington said.
"I lived in constant fear. Wanting to hide and block out the shouting and screams, but also needing to know my mum was okay.
"My home was supposed to be my sanctuary, but it never was. I also felt embarrassment and shame because my family was different.
"The effects are profound. The scars of domestic violence are deep and stay with you forever," she added.
Cr Symington urged Council to vote to re-brand the now defunct White Ribbon campaign, and in its place promote its 'No Domestic Violence' campaign and walk.
"It is vital that Georges River Council keeps the issue of domestic violence a key focus for the community, and works to stamp it out," said Cr Symington.
"Please join us for the upcoming walk, and support those in our community who are affected by domestic violence," she said.
To further support the campaign, Councillor Liu urged Councillors to allocate discretionary ward funds to manufacture and distribute reusable banners and promotional material.
"Council will also consider allocating funding to support a broader campaign for next year's walk as well," said Cr Liu.
"We are using visual branding on Council's waste contractor vehicles to promote the walk this year, which is a great way to build awareness, and hopefully increase attendance," Cr Liu said.
Georges River Council is committed to ending domestic violence in the local area.
The 'No Domestic Violence' walk will see the Georges River community come together for the third time to walk 1.5 kilometres, from Netstrata Jubilee Stadium in Kogarah, to Kogarah Town Square on Friday 22 November 2019.
The public are advised that there will be rolling road closures along the route to ensure participants' safety for the duration of the walk.
Date: Friday 22 November 2019
Time: The walk will commence at 10.00am
Address: Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, Kogarah
Register: https://www.trybooking.com/BFDYI
