THE issue of domestic violence has been put under the spotlight at one of the Hunter's most beloved landmarks.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Anti-domestic violence charity Got Your Back Sista (GYBS) handed the crowd at the Newcastle Knights versus Bulldogs game at McDonald Jones Stadium banners with 'yes' on one side and 'no' on the other, which they held up when asked questions including whether they would speak out if they knew someone was being abused.
The charity also displayed a 'Say no to domestic violence' flag on the field at halftime and had about 400 supporters in slogan shirts sitting in a bay. GYBS chief executive Melissa Histon-Browning said it was important to discuss the issue in public.
"Domestic violence affects more people in the community than we realise because people don't talk about it. They stay silent because of the shame and guilt that goes with it.
"This gives people the opportunity to understand what's happening to them is not okay, to try and reach out and ask for help and know that we're all behind you."
Read more:
- Hunter health workers offer compassion after violence
- TAFE NSW partnership uses education as key to unlock confidence and independence
- Got Your Back Sista teams up with Newcastle Knights to raise voices against domestic violence
- Hunter MPs call for funding for Jenny's Place Domestic Violence Resource Centre
- Jenny's Place Domestic Violence Resource Centre faces closure
- Domestic violence extends beyond physical abuse
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report shows nearly two thirds of women being hospitalised for domestic violence have head, neck injuries
- More research needed about why people commit domestic violence: University of Newcastle psychologist
- We need to help women fleeing domestic violence overcome the barriers to a better life: advocate