The Deniliquin Domestic Violence Awareness Committeee is taking a strong stance against gender-based violence, by taking part in ‘16 Days of Activism’.
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Starting yesterday and continuing through to December 10, it is an annual and global movement which calls for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.
As part of the campaign, the local group is asking locals to show their support by wearing and displaying white ribbons.
Committee member Leanne Wright said as part of the movement, people are also encouraged to read Paulette Kelly’s powerful thought-provoking poem ‘I Got Flowers Today’.
As well as appearing in this newspaper, it will be broadcast throughout the ‘16 Days of Activism’ on ACE Radio.
“It is a poem that describes the cycle of an abusive relationship and the impact it can have on a woman,” Mrs Wright said.
“The escalation of the nature of abuse is clearly described in this poem.
“These are experiences of countless women who have been abused in their relationships.
“The Domestic Violence Awareness Committee asks the community to reflect on the alarming number of women - 86 - who have lost their lives this year at the hands of violence.
“The committee also encourage households and businesses to unite and place white ribbons at the front of their properties.”
I Got Flowers Today (Dedicated to Battered Women)
I got flowers today!
It wasn't my birthday or any other special day.
We had our first argument last night;
And he said a lot of cruel things that really hurt;
I know that he is sorry and didn't mean to say the things he said;
Because he sent me flowers today.
I got flowers today.
It wasn't our anniversary or any other special day.
Last night, he threw me into a wall and started to choke me.
It seemed like a nightmare.
I couldn't believe that it was real.
I woke up this morning sore and bruised all over. I know he must be sorry.
Because he sent me flowers today.
I got flowers today!
It wasn't our anniversary or any other special day;
Last night he threw me into a wall and then started choking me;
It seemed unreal, a nightmare, but you wake up from nightmares;
And I woke up this morning sore and bruised all over—but I know he is sorry;
Because he sent me flowers today.
I got flowers today!
And it wasn't Valentine’s Day or any other special day;
Last night he beat me and threatened to kill me;
Make-up and long sleeves didn't hide the cuts and bruises this time;
I couldn't go to work today because I didn't want anyone to know—but I know he's sorry; Because he sent me flowers today.
I got flowers today!
And it wasn’t Mother’s Day or any other special day;
Last night he beat me again, and it was worse than all of the other times;
If I leave him, what will I do? How will I take care of the kids? What about money?
I’m afraid of him, but I’m too scared and dependent to leave him! But he must be sorry;
Because he sent me flowers today.
I got flowers today….
Today was a special day — it was the day of my funeral;
Last night he killed me;
If only I would have gathered the courage and strength to leave him;
I could have received help from the Women’s Shelter, but I didn’t ask for their help;
So I got flowers today—for the last time.
• If you or someone you know needs assistance, call 1800RESPECT, Vinnies Services in Deniliquin on 5881 7411, or Murrumbidgee Local Health District on 1800 654 324.
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