March highlights the right to feel safe at night, anywhere

Nov 10, 2023

On Friday, 24 November, the community will take to the streets of Port Macquarie to raise awareness of the right for all people to feel safe from violence and harassment no matter where they are, what they are wearing or if they are walking alone.

The new date was announced this week after the original October event was postponed due to inclement weather.

Reclaim the Night is a global campaign led locally by Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) in partnership with Port Macquarie Hastings Council, TAFE NSW, Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Service, Headspace and Mid North Coast Police.

MNCLHD Aboriginal Violence Abuse and Neglect Family Worker Jade Chelman is looking forward to the event being held for the first time since 2019.

Reclaim the Night enables people to stand united against violence and create gentle dialogue about the need to shift responsibility from the victim, particularly in domestic and family violence cases.

“Violence is a whole-of-community issue to question, challenge and change attitudes,” Ms Chelman said.

“Reclaim the Night shows community strength and a collective demand for freedom from violence and harassment. We all have the right to feel safe.”

People of all ages and abilities are welcome to attend the event from 5.30pm on Friday, 24 November, at Port Macquarie’s Town Green. There will be a free barbecue and live music.