Today, 25 November, marks the start of 16 Days of Activism which aims to increase awareness of gender-based violence and discrimination in all spheres.
Wirrate Fire Brigade Captain and Regional Manager Volunteer Sustainability Hamish Fletcher said the violent behaviour we ignore is the violent behaviour we condone.
“As CFA volunteers, we support each other by calling out danger on the fireground. Speaking out against violent behaviour is no different,” Hamish said.
“James Baldwin is quoted as saying, ‘Not everything that is faced can be changed. But nothing can be changed until it is faced.’ We must face up to violent behaviour wherever we see it. That includes when we see it within ourselves.
“Violent behaviour is perpetrated and supported through actions. It is also confronted and responded to through actions. The action we choose is up to us.”
There are many ways you can demonstrate your support for ending gender-based violence this year during 16 Days of Activism from 25 November until 10 December.
It might be as simple as posting a photo online to show your support on your brigade or district Facebook pages or even sharing our social media and News and Media content.
You can also seek out 16 Days of Activism events in your local area by contacting your local government or your local LGBTIQ community groups.
Active Bystander online training
Active Bystander training is a two-and-a-half-hour course designed to equip CFA people with the skills and confidence to identify and respond to instances of gender inequality and behaviour that both disrespects women and condones violence against women.
