Dear Sir,
I welcome the launch of Respect Victoria’s new campaign, What Kind of Man Do You Want to Be?, which shines a light on the pressures men face and the impact of harmful gender stereotypes on individuals, families and communities.
The campaign encourages men to reflect on traditional expectations of masculinity, such as always being in control, suppressing vulnerability or asserting dominance, and to consider the kind of man they want to be in their relationships and everyday lives.
It features the voices and stories of real Victorian men, from a range of backgrounds and experiences, including fatherhood and online spaces. Rather than lecturing, the campaign invites honest reflection, with the aim of building healthier relationships and more respectful communities.
This important work is grounded in research and has been developed alongside frontline experts and community organisations including Jesuit Social Services, No to Violence, The Man Cave, and the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation.
Addressing gendered violence must involve the whole community, including men and boys. I thank Respect Victoria for their evidence-based approach and for recognising the vital role of sport, schools and community programs in prevention.
As someone who continues to strongly advocate for safer communities and respectful relationships across the Mildura electorate, I support this campaign and the conversations it is helping to start.
Warm regards,
Jade Benham MP
