Mother of Kristy Armstrong appeals for action at rally to end gender-based violence
“On the 9th of June 2023, our lives were shattered forever. Kristy was taken from us in a cruel and selfish way,” Kristy’s mother Donna Thornell said, recalling the terrible night she learned her daughter had been murdered by her former husband.
“We lost our daughter, mum, sister, cousin, Godmother, niece, workmate, and friend. Our lives will never be the same again,” she continued, one of a number of speakers to address the hundreds of Orange locals who braved a bitterly cold Sunday afternoon to attend the No More National Rally Against Violence at the Naylor Pavillion in Orange.
Detailing the tragic circumstances leading up to the death of her daughter, Mrs Thornell said the situation should have been different. Kristy had reached out for help, she said, but had eventually given up when that help wasn’t forthcoming.
Ultimately, the system failed her, Mrs Thornell continued, appealing for a range of government actions to better support victims.
“We believe that Kristy and many others in similar circumstances would have had a far different outcome if services maintained a level of contact and actually acted on what they advertised they can offer as support to the victims of domestic violence,” Mrs Thronell said.
“Unfortunately, the services designed to provide relief and protection are failing those in need... It is imperative that we demand better.
“We must call on our local government to prioritise funding and resources for domestic violence. We must advocate for comprehensive training for service providers so that they can offer the empathetic and effective support victims require.
“Stronger laws and policies are needed to protect victims and hold abusers accountable. Advocating for legislation that addresses domestic violence and ensures victims’ rights is vital…
“Prevention is vital as is intervention. Community Programs that provide education, support and resources can help prevent domestic violence before it starts. By addressing the root causes and promoting healthy respectful relationships we can hope to reduce domestic violence in our community.”
Mrs Thornell also appealed for individuals to take a stand and call out inappropriate behaviour when they see it.
“It takes everyone here on an individual basis to look out for each other. If you know someone that is a perpetrator of domestic violence, whether it be a brother, sister, son, work colleague, speak out…it is far better losing a friendship by speaking out, than someone losing a life.
“Addressing domestic violence is not just the responsibility of a few, but all of us.
It requires a collective effort, unwavering commitment and a refusal to accept the status quo. We owe it to future generations to build a community where safety, support and dignity are guaranteed for all.”
The No More National Rally Against Violence saw people around the country take to the streets over the weekend to advocate for change and address the issue of gendered violence in our community.