Respect Victoria is taking its powerful primary prevention message to the heart of Melbourne’s sporting culture, launching a new trial campaign at AAMI Park on 26 January.
Building on the success of its four-year ‘Respect Is’ community campaign, the ‘Respect Is a Safe Event’ trial will deliver positive prevention messages across bathrooms at the stadium in time for the Melbourne Victory versus Sydney FC soccer match on Monday 26 January.
Sporting events have a unique power to bring tens of thousands of people together in a shared passion. They are also powerful venues to promote respect and equality, and to challenge the attitudes that can lead to violence. This initiative merges Victoria’s love of major events with the critical, ongoing work to prevent family violence and all forms of gendered violence in our community.
The trial expands Respect Victoria’s established work in challenging sexism in sport, asking fans to reflect on how respect, safety and equality make for a better experience for everyone. If successful, Respect Victoria hopes other venues and events will adopt the initiative.
‘Respect Is a Safe Event’ follows the powerful community display during the recent 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which saw nearly 11,000 Victorians participate in Melbourne’s Walk Against Family Violence on Friday, 28 November.
Quote from Jacquie O’Brien, Director Communications and Community Change, Respect Victoria
“We know that to prevent violence, we need to change the culture that enables it. Sports stadiums are a great opportunity to promote respect to a huge and diverse audience, and Respect Victoria thanks AAMI Park for its support.”
Quotes from the Minister for Prevention of Family Violence, The Hon. Natalie Hutchins MP
“Respect for women is at the heart of community prevention efforts. Men’s behaviour in public places, including major events and sports, plays an important role in building a Victoria free from violence."
“We’re proud to work with Respect Victoria to engage the community, when and where it’s needed most.”
Media contact: Chloe Cornford | 0401 988 960 | chloe@upstride.com.au