International Womens Day Friday 8th March 2013

 

Dawn House & Happy Herb Shop are hosting ‘high tea’ at Raintree Park in the city from 4.30 to 6.30pm.

Please come along and help support this event, have a yarn with Dawn House and Happy Herb Shop staff.  Have a cuppa tea and cake, while chilling out listening to some live music. Tie-dye garments and articles which have been created by Dawn House women and children will be on sale.  There will also be herbal teas and women’s products on sale from Happy Herb Shop.

Any profits from sales will go to Dawn House to assist the agency’s service to its clients.

 

Candlelight Vigil

Every year on 1^st of May a national Candle Lighting Vigil is held across Australia to remember those who have died and to support those who are still experiencing domestic and family violence.The first candle lighting vigil, organised by Domestic and Family Services in Queensland, was held on the first Wednesday of May, 2005. It has since become an annual event and spread nationwide.Each one of those people who died left behind a mother, father, siblings, probably children, friends whose lives have been inextricably altered for the worse because of that event.

The Vigil in Darwin, organised by the domestic and family violence network, was held on the Esplanade Wednesday 1st May and attracted a small but dedicated group.  June Mills offered a warm welcome to country, including a self-penned song.  Justine Mickle from Melaleuca Refugee Centre spoke about her work with Refugees and her hope for a Community free from violence.  The group shared their stories and experiences of domestic violence.

Due to sea breezes snuffing out our efforts, the initial candle lighting had a humorous side; however it soon turned emotional as those who were gathered bowed their heads in a one minute silence to remember those who have passed.  Local performers, Michelangela broke the silence with a moving rendition of ‘hands’.  Those gathered raised their voices along with the enthusiastic birds who had gathered in the trees above to join in earnest song.This event brings hope to everyone; in whatever way they are affected by the violence that can be seen on the news and in the streets each day.  It is heartened to feel the support of others and to know that there are humanitarians in our community who are seeking a more peaceful and safe community for all of us.Next year will be an even bigger and better event.  Mark the date in your diary and please come along.