WRAP # 68: Women's activism, the problem with prevention and Then and Now with Rosa Vasseghi

For many of us, this month has been tough. With the onslaught of subtle and unsubtle hatred and violence directed against people from migrant backgrounds in our parliament, on our television sets, in our newspapers and on the streets, you’d expect us to have something to say about it. But truthfully, we’ve already heard a lot of words, with very little action, and it has left us a bit speechless.

That’s why this WRAP we wanted to write about getting activ(ist); we want to reflect on the question we’ve all been asking…what can we do? We are sure you know that there are many answers. We also interviewed an incredible activist, Rosa Vasseghi, in an inspiring ‘Then and Now.’

There have been some reasons to smile amidst the jaw-drops. Australia’s first female Muslim senator, Dr Mehreen Faruqi, took office. Closer to home, and in a fitting tribute to the late Fiona Richardson on the anniversary of her death, the Prevention of Family Violence Bill 2018 was passed, formally establishing Victoria’s first ever dedicated family violence prevention agency, Respect Victoria, as a Statutory Authority.

Not to mention, we have officially announced our 40th Anniversary Gala: Migrant Women Matter; it’s going to be the place to be with speaker Michelle Law, and amazing tunes from Thando. Come along, show your support and meet the women behind the WRAP! We’d love to meet you.

Until next time,
The WRAP Team