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Envoy leads drive against aggression

A leading diplomat in Perth says young men need to show more respect for women, including by responsible use of social media.

But US consul-general Cynthia Griffin, who is speaking at an International Women's Day event this week to raise awareness about violence against women, said girls and young women also needed to be more aware of the risks.

"People are doing things on social media that frankly I'm shocked at - everything from recording images, sharing images and even music videos where violence against women is perpetrated," she said.

Ms Griffin said girls and young women needed to be empowered as strong advocates in the fight against violence.

But in some cases women still made excuses for violence they faced or felt they "deserved it".

"Letting young men know that proper respect for girls is important, so it's about educating both, and also instilling a sense of confidence so people can speak up," she said.

"We have concerns about violence against women and girls, and we're looking at this from a human rights perspective."

Ms Griffin said a significant portion of violence against women was carried out by someone known to them.

The lunch at Crown Perth on Friday will promote Momentum Forum Events' Kiss Violence Against Women Goodbye campaign. Burns survivor Dana Vulin is testimonial speaker.

Organiser Barbara McNaught said the campaign was launched in Perth last year with television host Charlotte Dawson, a victim of online bullying, who took her own life last month.

"Charlotte's life story inspired me to launch the campaign," Mrs McNaught said.

For tickets, go to momentumwf.com.au or call 1300 175 388.

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