UPDATE: The Griffith community is set to hold a significant vigil on November 28, 2025, to raise awareness about the alarming rates of domestic violence affecting women and children. This urgent gathering comes in conjunction with the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which runs from November 25 to December 10.
Organized by the Griffith Local Domestic Violence Committee and Soroptimists International Griffith, this memorial vigil will take place at the Kooyoo Street Plaza, starting at 12:30 PM. Participants are invited to join for the full hour or for any duration that suits them, with a majority of the time dedicated to a silent reflection in honor of the victims.
The need for this vigil is underscored by the disturbing data from Counting Dead Women Australia and Destroy the Joint, which recorded a staggering 42 women and children killed due to domestic violence in just the first half of 2025. This figure is particularly alarming compared to the 81 total deaths reported throughout 2024, highlighting a growing crisis that demands urgent attention.
In a heartfelt invitation to the community, Yvonne Wilson from the Griffith Local Domestic Violence Committee and Pat Cox, president of the Griffith Soroptimists, stated,
“It is important that we all stand together to highlight the epidemic of violence occurring towards women and children, not only in Australia but around the world.”
Their message emphasizes the need for collective action, as this violence impacts women and girls of all backgrounds and ages.
This vigil marks the second memorial event following the inaugural vigil held in 2024, demonstrating a commitment from the Griffith community to confront this ongoing threat. Attendees will have the opportunity to remember and honor those lost to domestic violence, while also standing in solidarity with survivors and advocates.
As the date approaches, residents are encouraged to participate and spread the word about this critical gathering. The vigil not only serves as a somber reminder of the lives affected by domestic violence but also as a call to action for change within the community and beyond.
Stay tuned for more updates as the event draws near and join in the fight against domestic violence this November.
