Newcastle-based not-for-profit organisation, Got Your Back Sista and Founder Melissa Histon is urging Australia to say ‘no!’ to domestic violence.
I Run For Her, the annual community event by Got Your Back Sista, is urging critical conversations around domestic violence on a national scale for the first time, with events hosted across Australia on 15 October 2023.
Returning for its fourth year, I Run For Her spreads the message of solidarity for people who have experienced or are at risk of domestic violence.
The event format has no dedicated location, start time, distance, or duration. Participants can decide what, where, when and how and manage their own fundraising efforts.
Melissa Histon said Australia’s abuse rates are a problem of epidemic proportions, with statistics indicating the rates of domestic violence are showing no signs of decreasing.
“Let’s talk about it, Australia,” Melissa said.
“Let’s take a close look at the prevalence of family and domestic violence and ask why in 2023 this is still happening.
“Let’s take practical steps to make our communities a safer place. Let’s encourage people who need help to access available services.”
This year’s ambassador for I Run For Her, Madeleine West said she encourages local businesses to participate in this year’s event and join a worthy cause.
“We cannot change what we cannot see, and domestic violence has been lurking in the shadows for too long,” Madeleine said.
“The social, economic, and personal cost is too great to ignore. These are difficult but necessary conversations. For those experiencing domestic violence, the sense of isolation is crushing.
“But you are not alone and united we can make a difference.”
Event partner, the Australian Assembly of Administrators (AAA) will host 5km walks or runs in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane and are rallying their network, as well as the wider community to join their teams. Got Your Back Sista will host a run for the fourth year in Newcastle.
The Lady Shake is the presenting partner, with additional sponsors including Newcastle Coal, Orica, Allambi Care, City of Newcastle. Community partners include HIC Services, Charlestown Square, NewFM and Australian Community Media.
