Kerrie Hess, a renowned fashion illustrator, is showing solidarity with the #MeToo movement by releasing an empowering portrait print in collaboration with The Women’s Legal Service to break the silence on domestic violence and raise funds for the cause.
We stand Together was inspired by a breakfast Kerrie had with Dame Quentin Bryce at a Women’s Legal Service event held at the start of this year. “When I was at The Women’s Legal Service breakfast and heard women telling their equally heartbreaking and inspiring stories I knew I wanted to be involved and find my own way to make a contribution,” Ms Hess said. “Providing legal services to those who can’t afford it in situations of domestic violence or sexual assault, as The Women’s Legal Service does, is unfortunately very much needed,” she said.
Data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics in late 2017 found more than half of Australian women say they have been sexually harassed, with one in two experiencing it in the course of their life. Further to this, The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2018 report, statistics show that since the age of 15, one in six women have experienced physical violence from a previous or current partner. One in four had experienced emotional abuse. “This print was created for these women. I wanted to help support the work done by The Women’s Legal Service and hopefully add more spark to the conversation so those in a vulnerable situation may feel there is somewhere to go for help,” Ms Hess said.
With 100 per cent of sales going to The Women’s Legal Service, fundraising manager Natalie Davidson says the portrait will speak to all women. “The beautiful art by Kerrie Hess shows the strength of women standing with, and supporting each other, which is the core of what we pride ourselves on,” Ms Davidson said “Seeking help after suffering domestic violence takes immense strength, courage and a sisterhood is vital. We need to support each other in future free of domestic violence.”
We Stand Together was released on June 6 on Kerrie’s website for $275 with all proceeds going to The Women’s Legal Service.
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