NSW religious leaders unite to help end domestic violence

·

More than 70 prominent religious leaders representing all major faiths signed a declaration on Tuesday with the NSW Government to help end domestic violence.

Archimandrite Eusebios (Pantanassiotis) signed the declaration on behalf of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia.

The declaration, which was developed in consultation with leaders from the Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist and Sikh communities, included a number of commitments drafted and agreed to by the interfaith group to address, respond to and speak out against acts of domestic violence and better support victims.

NSW Interfaith Domestic and Family Violence Declaration forum © Salty Dingo 2022

Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence Natalie Ward said the declaration demonstrated a whole of community response to domestic and family violence.

“This declaration by senior faith leaders has helped create a united sense of purpose, ownership and commitment to reduce the prevalence of domestic and family violence,” Mrs Ward said.

“Everyone can make a difference and be a part of the change in ensuring domestic and family violence is neither excused nor ignored in our community.”

NSW Interfaith Domestic and Family Violence Declaration forum © Salty Dingo 2022

Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure said when community and religious leaders and the NSW Government work together, everyone benefits.

“We know these leaders play an incredibly important role within their respective communities and are looked to for guidance and information,” Mr Coure said.

“The NSW Government recognises this and our partnership with them is the key to connecting with communities more effectively, especially when it comes to important issues like domestic and family violence.

“We have been actively working with these leaders to provide them with the skills and information they need to help people when they are approached or engaging with their communities.”

NSW Interfaith Domestic and Family Violence Declaration forum © Salty Dingo 2022

Reverend Simon Hansford from the Uniting Church said the signing of the declaration signified a momentous occasion, bringing together a diverse group of faith leaders to formally commit to working with the NSW Government in ending family violence.

“Domestic and family violence occurs across the whole of society, and it does not discriminate,” Reverend Hansford said.

“We acknowledge that communities have not always been a safe place for victims, survivors, and the families of those who experience domestic violence and as such we accept the important role that we as leaders have in addressing domestic and family violence in all its forms.”

The declaration can be found here.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Greek fire in ‘The Belly of the Beast’ at St Kilda

‘The Vineyard’ in St Kilda (also known as ‘The Belly of the Beast’) has a long and rich ethnic-Australian heritage.

Jenny Souris Foundation Gala raises $100,000 to help young cancer fighter Jack

The Jenny Souris Foundation’s fundraising gala raised funds for four-year-old Jack, who is courageously battling Stage IV Neuroblastoma.

Greek Australian George Moulos attempts record-breaking ‘March Across Greece’

Young Greek Australian entrepreneur George Moulos will embark on a transformative 1,200 km journey across Greece on foot.

proika exhibition explores cultural bonds that unite the Greek Australian community

On November 20, the proika project invites you to the launch their multimedia exhibition, melding fashion, photography and conversations.

Heliades Greek Women’s Network celebrate Melbourne Cup in style

The Greek Women's Network (Heliades) hosted a vibrant celebration of the Melbourne Cup on Sunday, November 3.

You May Also Like

Drug trafficking case against Melbourne souvlaki king Sam Karagiozis dropped

A case against Sam Karagiozis has been dropped after prosecution failed to give evidence he was the alleged boss of a drug trafficking scheme.

NSW will ‘lead the nation’ in reopening borders, Premier Gladys Berejiklian says

New South Wales’ Premier, Minister for Multiculturalism, and Chief Deputy Health Officer met with multicultural media on Wednesday.

Chile upset Greece at Australia’s United Cup

Chile pulled off a stunning 2-1 upset of Greece on Tuesday at Australia's United Cup. Read the full story here.