March marks Rape Crisis milestone

About 100 people marched down George St to the Octagon on Saturday to mark  Rape Crisis Dunedin’s...
About 100 people marched down George St to the Octagon on Saturday to mark Rape Crisis Dunedin’s 35th anniversary and raise awareness about sexual assault. Photo: Gerard O'Brien.
"Yes means yes, no means no, however we dress wherever we go" was among the chants at a march on Saturday to mark the 35th anniversary of Rape Crisis Dunedin.

The about 100 people who marched down George St  to mark the anniversary were aiming to raise awareness about consent and the prevalence of sexual assault in the Dunedin community.

Rape Crisis Dunedin funding co-ordinator Michelle Reddy  highlighted the importance of the group, which received about 400 calls per year, including referrals from organisations such as the police and calls from victims of sexual assault.

She was keen for people to find out how to support those who had been sexually assaulted and "bust some of those rape myths", which included  placing blame on women who went out at night.

There had been some progress in the last 35 years,  including people being more open about  discussing the issue, but there was still a long way to go.

After the march, speeches were held in the Octagon. 

Earlier, the group  used chants to raise awareness, including: "Hey hey Mr, Mr, get your hands off my sister".

vaughan.elder@odt.co.nz

Add a Comment

 

Advertisement