Logan City has unveiled its first ‘purple bench’ – a landmark tribute to victims of domestic violence.
Purple bench seats were first installed in Nova Scotia, Canada, in 2015 to mark the 25th anniversary of the death of local woman Barb Baillie, who was murdered by her violent husband.
Since then, purple benches have appeared across America, and more recently in Australia, to honour the victims of domestic and family violence and to increase awareness of the issues faced every day by some women and children.
Logan City Council has painted and installed the city’s first purple bench in Beenleigh Town Square.
It was unveiled by Logan City Council Division 12 Councillor Karen Murphy, in conjunction with members of Soroptimist International Beenleigh.
Soroptimist International is a worldwide volunteer organisation that advocates for human rights and gender equality for women and girls.
Beenleigh ladies from Soroptimist International approached Cr Karen Murphy when she was first elected to council.
“They presented their idea of having the purple bench outside of the Beenleigh courthouse as a symbol for those who have suffered from domestic violence,” she said.
“I thought it was a brilliant idea and we worked together to make it happen.”
Cr Murphy said it was an issue close to her heart that ‘doesn’t discriminate’.
“It can happen to men and women and affects children,” she said.
“It doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from.
“Domestic violence doesn’t discriminate.”
Cr Murphy said the unveiling of the purple bench coincided with the beginning of the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism against domestic violence.
“This is a small addition to Beenleigh Town Square that will send a huge and powerful message,” Cr Murphy said.
“When anyone sees this purple bench, or sits on it, I hope they take the time to remember the victims of domestic violence and to reach out and assist anyone they think may be in a vulnerable situation.”
