are being urged not to laugh at sexist jokes and to roll their eyes when others use sexist stereotypes as part of a campaign to increase respect for women.These suggestions are among the tips to help bystanders take action against everyday sexism, disrespect and harassment of women.People are encouraged to “start an informal conversation with colleagues, family, friends and community members” about sexism if and when they feel safe to do so.This includes saying things like: “Come on, you are better than that” when others act in inappropriate ways.
The “Call it out” kit, released on Friday by Respect Victoria is part of the United Nation’s 16 days of Activism against Gender-based Violence.
The kit advises bystanders not to laugh, to give a disapproving look, to leave “a pointed and uncomfortable silence” or make a comment such as “What century are you living in?”
The campaign kit from 79 Victorian Councils and 17 community organisations says that “in order to call out sexism and disrespect towards women, people must first be able to recognise it”. It suggests everyday examples of sexism, disrespect and harassment include using “like a girl” as an insult, making sexist jokes such as ““I’d give her an 8 out of 10!” at the pub and sitting back while women at work clean the kitchen or get the coffees.The campaign comes as the number of family violence incidents recorded by police in Victoria increased by 11.7 per cent between April and June this year. At the same time, support service 1800 RESPECT saw a 66 per cent increase in calls compared to the same period in 2019.“We all deserve to be treated with respect, and the way that we talk to and act towards our partners, family, friends, neighbours and colleagues matters. We can prevent family violence and violence against women by identifying the signs and taking action to call it out,” Respect Victoria chair Melanie Eagle said. The campaign comes as one woman in Australia is murdered by a current or former partner each week, and one in two women have experienced sexual harassment.
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