This year the Carlton Football Club will actively take part and support ‘16 Days of Activism’, a global campaign raising awareness around violence against women.

The international initiative runs from Friday 25 November until Saturday 10 December, symbolically beginning on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and finishing on International Human Rights Day.

Throughout the 16-day campaign, coaches, players and staff will take it in turns to internally share messages with each other. These messages include everything from stats and information regarding workplace equality and culture, to making a difference and positively influencing children.


Carlton players (left to right) Dennis Armfield, Lauren Arnell, Sam Rowe, Darcy Vescio, Ed Curnow, Bri Davey and Lachie Plowman show their support for 16 Days of Activism. (Photo: Carlton Media)

‘16 Days of Activism’, which originated from the first Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991, links to the Club’s work around CARLTON RESPECTS and gender equality.

Since launching CARLTON RESPECTS in July, the Blues have been committed to raising awareness around family violence as well as promoting respect and equality.

In Round 17 against West Coast the players ran out on the MCG wearing bright orange socks – a colour synonymous with harmony and respect – to mark the beginning of the ongoing campaign.

As part of the initiative Carlton will facilitate educational sessions at schools and not-for-profit organisations over the next 12 months to promote equality and respect, with a focus among youth in Melbourne’s northern corridor. 


Dennis Armfield and Lauren Arnell are committed to raising awareness around violence against women. (Photo: Carlton Media)

In addition to CARLTON RESPECTS, the Blues are also one of four organisations in Victoria spearheading a government project to prevent violence against women at work, with the Club signing up to take part in a Workplace Equality and Respect Project, led by Our Watch.

To show your support for ‘16 Days of Activism’, which starts today, make sure you use the hashtag #NoExcuse4Violence on social media throughout the 16-day period.

If you, a child, or another person need a sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visit their website for 24/7 phone and online services.