Many thousands of women and men marched in Melbourne today in honour of Jill Meagher, who was allegedly murdered apparently at random more than one week ago, united in their grief and also in standing up for violence against women. The vast majority of those present would not have known Jill Meagher but all shared a horror at what happened to her and a belief in "peace, hope, non-violence and solidarity with all women."
The event was organised by a local resident Philip Werner who said he wanted to do something to help unite the local community, and to show that such senseless, violent behaviour is not tolerated. The turnout was significantly more than he thought it would be which Mr Werner said is testament to the depth and strength of community feeling.
Many participants carried flowers for Jill Meagher, as well as signs urging women to be vigilant but not afraid.
"Jill Meagher will not be forgotten," Mr Werner said.
Maureen Roberts, 67, marched with her husband Tony carrying roses and wearing a specially-knitted orange, green and white scarf in a tribute to Ms Meagher's Irish homeland.
"My heart just aches for Jill and her family, and we just felt we had to be here, it's very moving," said Mrs Roberts who also has Irish heritage.
One organisation that is working to prevent violence towards women through prevention initiatives, ambassadors and an annual campaign is 'White Ribbon'. Statistics show that one in three Australian women over 15 years of age have reported physical or sexual violence at some time. White Ribbon ambassadors include Federal MPs Kevin Rudd, Joe Hockey and Peter Garrett, Sydney Swans star Adam Goodes, Keith Urban, Jason Culina, Hazem El Masri, Hamish & Andy and Wil Anderson.
White Ribbon Day is held every year on 25 November. To find out more about prevention programs, education and how you can help with this year's campaign, visit www.whiteribbon.org.au
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