By GARRY HOWE, STAR NEWS GROUP EDITOR
“I SWEAR never to commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women. This is my oath.”
A growing number of men across Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs are signing up to this pledge.
Over the past 12 months, more than 70 male community leaders have been educated on the scourge of family violence and violence against women in general under the banner of the Challenge Family Violence program, with a view to encouraging behavioural change across their spheres of influence.
It is a fact that across Australia one woman dies at the hand of her partner every week – and one in three women will be a victim of family violence in their lifetime. Many don’t feel safe in their own home.
Sadly, the region encompassing the City of Casey, City of Greater Dandenong and Shire of Cardinia is considered a hotbed for this behaviour. There are at least 25 police officers dedicated solely to supporting victims of family violence and targeting offenders.
In the past, family violence has been largely brushed off by blokes as a women’s issue, or an issue for police to deal with. Wrong! It’s a responsibility that men have to accept – and those 70-plus community leaders have put their hand up to do just that.
They now all have action plans aimed at bridging the gender gap in our society.
Gender inequality is at the heart of the problem.
Why is it that some laud ambition in men, yet frown upon that same trait in women? Those same people may applaud a man for being forthright and condemn a woman with the same attitude as being bossy.
We can all play our part to break down this attitude. It may be as simple as steering a conversation away from a sexist path, or not laughing at a joke that crosses the bounds.
This is a serious matter.
As part of the campaign, Star News Group papers throughout the South East will devote considerable time and space to the challenging issues of family violence and violence against women.
We will focus on a lot of good work being done within the Challenge Family Violence program and initiatives to come out of it.
The white ribbon symbol – and more importantly the messages it brings – are becoming more common in the likes of sporting clubs, businesses and places of worship.
Get on board and help ensure the message is brought home – that’s where it’s needed most.
* Star’s Group Editor Garry Howe was one of the community leaders to participate in the Challenge Family Violence program.
