Red shoe donations highlight lives lost in campaign to end family violence

Preventable, abominable and inexcusable. These words convey some of the sentiments which Toowoomba Regional Council People and Culture portfolio spokesperson Cr Melissa Taylor said described the scourge of violence in the community. Today, (Monday, November 25, 2024), a collection of red shoes representing women who have died in violent circumstances added a telling visual reminder of the need to eliminate all violence as part of Toowoomba’s White Ribbon Day commemoration at the Empire Theatre. Cr Taylor thanked the community for donating red shoes under the Red Shoe Project banner, which is a global movement that lays bare the heartbreaking reality of gender-based violence. “While the red shoes represent heartbreak for the people who have died from violence or live with the fear and threat of violence, they also serve as a powerful call to action for our community to stand up and end this suffering,” Cr Taylor said. “Family violence is more than physical harm. It also includes psychological aspects which isolate and silence people. “Like many people, I’ve seen the heartache that these cowardly acts inflict. As well as the people directly affected, violence has a lasting effect on their family and friends. “Too many people are forced to cover their body or hide bruises to avoid detection or shame, which is unacceptable. “This is why everyone, especially community leaders, must speak up to highlight these detestable acts and support people who must not suffer alone. “Red signifies stopping violence and is also an indicator of love, happiness and hope that we can stand united and inspire real change in our community. “By helping even one person we have achieved the campaign’s aim. We know our efforts must not stop until we eliminate senseless violence.” Cr Taylor said the donated shoes will be auctioned early next year, at a date to be advised, in aid of Toowoomba Together’s fundraising efforts to help support services recognise, respond, and refer to domestic violence in the community. Community support agencies and supporters joined Toowoomba Together to mark White Ribbon Day, which is known as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. White Ribbon Day is a reflective gathering on the first day of the United Nations’ 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, which ends on December 10 on Human Rights Day.