It makes us feel safer when we assume that family and sexual violence live in other suburbs, other streets, other homes.
It is harder to see it in our own communities, or in the glittering triumph of a tennis star.
But silence and denial is how violence survives.
Tennis fans were happy to cheer her on when she was on the court.
But when it really mattered, fans watched on in silence when Jelena was a young, high-profile fixture of the tennis world.
Many people knew something was wrong, that Jelana was not safe.
However, the reality is that it's easier to stay quiet. To pretend you don’t see. To think it’s not your business.
This November, as part of the 16 Days of Activism, Centre Against Violence is inviting communities in north-east Victoria to a powerful evening with former world number four tennis champion, bestselling author, and survivor, Jelena Dokic.
From Benalla to Wangaratta to Wodonga, Jelena will share not just her rise to global stardom, but the hidden abuse she endured for over 15 years.
CAV chief executive Jamie Chubb said Jelena’s story was raw, confronting, and necessary.
It asks us all: Will we all watch in silence? Or will we be the ones who notice, who speak, who act?
“We cannot afford to turn away from what is hard,” Ms Chubb said.
“Jelena’s story shows the power of breaking silence, and we invite our entire community to join us in listening, learning and standing together.
“Change begins when we are willing to face the truth and take action."
These events are about coming together to support making the community safe for everyone. This is about taking responsibility and supporting each other.
They offer time to hear from Jelena, ask questions, and share in honest conversation about how we can all help end violence.
Local councils are supporting these events and encouraging their communities to come along and be part of the conversation.
“It is wonderful to have the backing of Benalla Rural City Council, Rural City of Wangaratta and Wodonga Council for these events,” Ms Chubb said.
“Their encouragement demonstrates our shared commitment to showing up, listening and working together to end violence in our communities.
“Because even after the darkest of times, there is hope.
“Change is possible, but it does not happen on its own. It takes all of us choosing to listen, to speak up, and to stand alongside those who need us.
“Only together can we build the safer, more compassionate communities we all deserve.”
Event details:
- Benalla – Tuesday, November 25 from 6pm at the Lakeside Community Centre.
- Wangaratta – Wednesday, November 26 from 6pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.
- Wodonga – Thursday, November 27 from 6pm at the Cube, Wodonga.
Tickets will be on sale from 10am on Thursday, August 14 via centreagainstviolence.org.au/news/jelena-dokic-events/
For more details about the events and how you can be part of this important conversation, visit centreagainstviolence.org.au/
If you, or someone you know is impacted by family violence call 1800RESPECT (1800 732 732) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Crisis support is also available by contacting Accessline on 1800 800 944, Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.
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