Posters encouraging gender equity will feature in Yarra Ranges preschools and early learning centres during 16 Days of Activism.
The posters showcase women and men in a range of roles that traditionally carry gender stereotypes such as nurses, firefighters, builders and more.
Yarra Ranges Council CEO Tammi Rose said the posters were themed around the phrase “you can’t be what you can’t see.”
“When young children think about where they would like to be in the future, there are very few limits to their imagination, which is wonderful,” she said.
“But as children grow up, their goals can be heavily shaped around what they see as possible for themselves – or, just as importantly, what they don’t see as possible.
“This is especially true for young women and girls, who may not often see women portrayed in STEM or trades, and for men and boys who don’t regularly see males engaged in caring professions such as nursing and childcare.”
The 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence is an international awareness campaign that runs from 25 November to 10 December.
Ms Rose said a key part of the 16 Days of Activism was Respect Victoria’s slogan, “Respect women, call it out.”
“When it comes to improving gender equity in our community, everyone is responsible and everyone can do something,” she said.
“For adults, one of the most profound things you can do is be respectful to others, including women, and call out sexist, disrespectful or unacceptable behaviour.
Ms Rose added that roadside banners will be placed throughout the Yarra Ranges over coming weeks that encourage respect towards women.
For more information on 16 Days of Activism in the Yarra Ranges, visit yrc.vic.gov.au/16days.
For anyone experiencing family violence contact Edvos for confidential support on 9259 4200 during business hours or Safe Steps Family Violence Response Service on 1800 RESPECT.
In an emergency call Victoria Police on 000.
