Domestic Violence campaign (Australia).

[sarsalot]

The Australian federal government launched an ad campaign today against domestic violence that will run until November 25th (International Violence Against Women Day). This campaign's aimed at bystanders (particularly men), encouraging them not to ignore DV they see around them. I'm not sure how many ads are in the campaign, but one was featured on

Comments

[janiee]

those numbers are insane!
just picture that many women standing togethor in a crowd. wow. its really great that the gov there is taking a helpful stand.

[crafting_change]

"We can't simply address those men who use violence we have to address those men who are bystanders to other men's violence," he said.

"Address those men who stay silent, who don't do anything when a mate is abusing his girlfriend, or when a family member is being sexually violent."

wow.
I think it is awesome that men are being called to task to say something if they see other men abusing.
As a woman who survived an abusive childhood where extended family were silent, this comes as hugely progressive and helpful.

[andi_williams]

I think it is awesome that men are being called to task to say something if they see other men abusing.

Seconded. It's so important. Too many people stand by and watch abuse happen.

[krazyhippie]

I wish they'd do that everywhere. Unfortunately it doesn't seem too outdated for people to think it's a private matter if violence is between domestic partners, and that's scary as hell.

[goddessdragon]

I remember, when I was 16 or 17, I sat with a friend waiting for her little sister to finish her softball game. In the parking lot, a man and a woman starting arguing. I forget the arguement, but it quicky escalated into a verbal war. My friend heard them, and said "simmer, simmer." I was aghast. I've always been told not to get into another couple's buisness. The couple settled down. I think the very fact that someone said they could hear was enough for them to take a step back.

It still bothers me to this day. The arguement was needed between the couple. The loudness however was not. I'm not sure if it was my wanting to stay away, or if my friend's braziness that got to me.

(and just to count: Twice: I nearly wanted to make this post hertro-centric. Darn this is harder than I thought).

[dancing_moon]

Whoa. How horrible - we try to think our words through.

[goddessdragon]

Its a personal challenge. I am a white heterosexual female. I am the "default." I need to challenge myself to look around. And counting is sometimes the way to start.