SAFVPN holds Matariki Celebration to commemorate victims of Family Violence

At 1 pm on Sunday the 12th of July at Manurewa Marae, S.A.F.V.P.N (Safer Aotearoa Family Violence Prevention Network) invites the community to participate in the release of 99 balloons to commemorate the 99 victims who have died as a result of Family Violence in New Zealand from 2013 – 2015. Over this same period there were 6 reported family-violence related deaths in the Counties Manukau area.

SAFVPN Manager Raewyn Bhana is appalled by the figures and wants to highlight them to make sure the community is aware of the prevalence of Family Violence as well as raising awareness for this kaupapa.

Keynote speakers for this SAFVPN Matariki Event include; members of the NZ Police, Angela Dalton- Chairwoman of the Manurewa Local Board and Su Cullen - Co-Vice President of the Maori Party.

TeRata Hikairo sits on the SAFVPN Governance Board. Hikairo says “As a survivor of past Family violence, I know the devastating effects that family violence can have not just on whanau but the whole community, As an individual and as a member of SAFVPN it is important for me to raise awareness so that we can reduce harm in our community”.

SAFVPN recognises the significance of the Maori New Year Matariki. Matariki is a time of celebration, remembrance and reflection. Hikairo sees Sunday’s Matariki Event as a dignified and respectful way of commemorating the Family Violence victims while also highlighting for the community the need to speak out in order to combat Family Violence and reduce the harm it causes.

On Sunday, the community can also enjoy a cultural performance and hangi.

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