Take a stand for peace, wear an Olive Ribbon

The Sydney Alliance is asking people to wear an Olive Ribbon as gesture of support for peace and community solidarity in the wake of the tragic Sydney siege.

Sydney Alliance Director Amanda Tattersall today said the siege had left the city heartbroken and in mourning.

“The tragic events of Monday and Tuesday cannot be undone.  Our city has lost two brave, talented and innocent people, while many others have been hurt or traumatised.

“Through the pain and grief, however, our city has shown itself to be incredibly caring and resilient.

“From the reaction to the siege on social media, to the huge floral tribute in Martin Place, Sydneysiders have come together to support each other.

“But in any time of stress or crisis, social cohesion can come under intense strain.  That’s why we are encouraging people to wear an Olive Ribbon as both a tribute to the victims of the siege and as a symbol of community solidarity.”

Western Sydney Community Forum Executive Officer Mary Waterford said free Olive Ribbons would be available from a number of locations around the city including:

• Pitt St Uniting Church, between Park & Bathurst Streets
• Unions NSW, Level 3, 4 Goulburn St Sydney
• Catholic Archdiocese Headquarters – Level 5, 133 Liverpool Street
• NSW Cancer Council, 153 Dowling Street Woolloomooloo

“If you’re not able to collect a pre-made ribbon, it’s easy to make one yourself,” Ms Waterford said.

“This campaign is all about honouring the lives we have lost, while taking a stand to protect the harmonious, diverse and inclusive society that we hold so dear.”

MEDIA CONTACT

• Amanda Tattersall 0409 321 133
• Mary Waterford 0403 257 519
• Stewart Prins 0487 119 790