CHALLENGE for change

A GROUP of local men have taken part in training to help them stamp out the sexist behaviour going on around them.
About 30 men from a range of professional backgrounds from the City of Casey, Shire of Cardinia and City of Greater Dandenong participated in bystander action-training on Wednesday 22 May.
The training was one of a number of initiatives of the recently-launched CHALLENGE Family Violence Project, which aims to address family violence within the community.
Modelled on the principles of the White Ribbon campaign, CHALLENGE enlists local men experienced in family violence prevention to become mentors to prominent influential male community leaders of various faiths and backgrounds.
City of Casey manager community safety Caroline Bell said the project sought to tackle sexism, discrimination and violence against women at every stage and in every setting.
“Bystander action refers to the steps a bystander can take to identify, speak out about or engage others in responding to sexism, discrimination or violence against women,” she said.
“From challenging a friend or colleague who makes sexist jokes, to speaking to management if women are treated unfairly in the workplace, to challenging spectators or players who use sexist sledging on the sports field – all of these behaviours, if left unchecked, can lead to a culture of acceptance.
“The training provides mentors with the skills and knowledge to challenge sexist attitudes and behaviours and promote respect, gender equity and non-violence towards women and children.”
Minister for Crime Prevention Edward O’Donohue showed his support for CHALLENGE when he visited mentors involved in the bystander action training at the Civic Centre.