ILC Open Forum 'Taking a stand against violence in Indigenous communities'

The Open forum was held to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women it commenced with a screening of Lani’s Story, an award winning documentary which explores the impact of intergenerational violence within a family and community and how the courage of one person can transform the lives of others. Following the film, a panel of speakers discussed the various ways in which we can all take a stand against violence in our families and communities.  The diversity of input from panel members and the audience enabled a frank engagement with issues around how to talk with families about what is violence and what behaviours we are willing to accept and tolerate; as well as how to intervene in situations or with people who we suspect  are experiencing violence to offer them appropriate support and safety; gap areas in service delivery was also discussed in particular the need for social and emotional wellbeing services for children who have been exposed to violence.   Our facilitator for the forum was Professor Julie Stubbs and our Panel Members were: Lani Brennan,  Dr Kyllie Cripps, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Law; Inspector Julie Boon, NSW Police Force; Thea Deakin-Greenwood and Josie Smith from Wirringa-Baiya Aboriginal Women’s Legal Centre.

Photo of Lani Brennan and Superintendant Gavin Dengate, sharing a moment after the showing of the documentary.

The Centre is conducting research 'Understanding Women and Childrens experiences in the justice system', with Prof Megan Davis and Dr Kyllie Cripps as Chief Investigators.  The project examines the experiences of Aboriginal women and children before the courts in the context of sexual assault.  To learn more about this work please refer to their research page http://www.ilc.unsw.edu.au/research/understanding-women-and-childrens-experiences-justice-system

Stay Connected