Current and past NRL players, including Alan Tongue, Josh Reynolds, David Shillington and Simaima Taufa have joined forces in the NRL’s latest Power For Change campaign.
The campaign, which is backed by Our Watch, White Ribbon Australia and the Full Stop Foundation, focusses on the NRL’s Voice Against Violence program, with a message of empowering young people to be leaders of change against domestic violence.
Former Raiders great and Voice Against Violence mentor, Alan Tongue said everyone in rugby league – from players to fans and administrators – had a responsibility to help end any sort of violence towards anyone, but particularly women and children.
Mr Tongue was recognised as the 2017 ACT Australian of the Year for his work helping to combat family violence.
“As a father of young girls, I want them to grow up in a safe and supportive environment,” Mr Tongue said.
“Sadly, domestic violence statistics across Australia make for very sombre reading.
“As a game, we have a responsibility and an opportunity to continue to use our collective and powerful voice to help end domestic violence.”
NRL Head of Government and Community Relations, Jaymes Boland-Rudder said the Voice Against Violence program would continue to expand in 2019, having reached more than 70 rugby league clubs throughout Australia and the Pacific this year.
“The Voice Against Violence program has been running since 2015 and over the last four years, our expert partners and player advocates have reached hundreds of local communities and rugby league clubs in Australia and throughout Pacific regions, with messages of support, education and respect,” Mr Boland-Rudder said.
“This is a vital program and a vital message to impart to as many people as possible – that domestic violence is never acceptable and can be prevented by promoting gender equality and respect.”
The NRL Voice Against Violence program is proudly supported by Holden.
To view the latest Power For Change campaign, click here.
For information about the NRL Voice Against Violence program and other NRL community programs, click here.
