Prosper, a multi-award-winning organisation supporting disadvantaged children and families has produced an impactful new anti-domestic and family violence prevention campaign for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The Strong, Safe, Fabulous initiative, delivered in partnership with Rainbow Families, aims to break down negative stereotypes while creating long-term behaviour change by sharing authentic stories from members of LGBTQIA+ families that address the importance of having a safe home life.
Karen Craigie OAM (Prosper, Project Australia) says it’s an ongoing issue that requires a long-term strategy for change.
“There is a high level of domestic and family violence within all communities, but the rate amongst the LGBTQIA+ community is even more alarming, with more than 40 per cent of people reporting abuse in an intimate partner relationship,” Karen said.
“Meanwhile, six in 10 LGBTQIA+ people report experiencing family violence. This is unacceptable, so to help reduce these staggering figures, we need more education about the impacts of violence and abuse while showcasing the life-changing benefits of offering support. Social norms, the language we use, and community attitudes are some of the factors that shape the way society views, understands and responds to domestic and family violence. Seeing how others support their loved ones and the positive impacts of offering loving acceptance teaches us how to improve the lives of LGBTQIA+ community members and be useful friends and allies.”
The Strong, Safe, Fabulous campaign features a series of powerful videos of LGBTQIA+ members overcoming personal struggles with the support of family and friends.
16-year-old Arley Pearce shared their story, hoping it would help others. “When I was in a bad place, I thought I was all alone until I accepted that my family cared, and with their support, I could push through,” Pearce said.
“I found another part of myself that I wouldn’t have known without my supportive family. The project was a great opportunity to express how I have gotten around problems and share my story of how I resolved them with the hope of helping others. Integrated communications and creative agency Bastion produced the Strong, Safe, Fabulous videos to encourage conversations within the community. Bastion Senior Broadcast Producer Niki Bentley said it was a memorable campaign with many
people volunteering their time, hoping to create change. “The cast were so generous, donating their time and sharing their stories, allowing us an insight into their lives and family,” she said.
“The messaging will make a difference in the community, changing opinions for the better. It’s wonderful to release these examples of healthy, strong relationships and show how truly amazing the LGBTQIA+ community is.”
The Strong, Safe, Fabulous videos can be viewed on the https://strongsafefabulous.online/resources/ website.
