A new program in Wangaratta aims to give individual community members the confidence to make a stand when another person is being disrespected or threatened.
STAND, to be delivered in partnership by Centre Against Violence and the Rural City of Wangaratta, with support from the Victorian government's Free from Violence Program, will focus on building confidence and learning strategies to prevent harmful behaviours, support others, and strengthen community safety.
The community can attend a free two-hour information sessions on STAND on Monday, 1 December from 6pm to 8pm, or Wednesday, 3 December from noon to 2pm at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.
Participants will explore why noticing and responding matters, how to recognise early signs of harmful behaviour, and how to “call out” or “call in” in safe and respectful ways.
Registrations are essential and close on Friday, 28 November - visit https://events.humanitix.com/stand.
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The program is a space for reflection, conversation, and collaboration, designed to leave you with realistic strategies you can use every day to help create a safer, more connected community.
For Peter Rourke from Wangaratta's Project 365, it was about respect for each others.
“When I think about respect, I think about trust," Mr Rourke said.
"Ultimate respect means we feel secure, we can trust people, and that makes our community a better place to live in.
"That is a pillar we cannot do without.
"For me personally, it is about the simple things.
"Going to work, coming home safe to our families and friends, knowing that when we are out in the community, someone is looking out for us, and we are looking out for them.
"That is what makes me feel safe.
"And if you see someone being treated badly? You do not turn away.
"You call it out.
"You check in with the person who has been disrespected.
"You have a chat, you keep the communication lines open.
"You never ever turn your back on it."
He said were so many people in this community who already carry the community in their heart be he wanted to reach those who are sitting on the sidelines.
"Maybe this is the moment to step forward," he said.
"Maybe this is the time to take just two hours out of your day, come along, and learn how to notice, how to act, and how to support.
"The STAND community event is about giving us all the confidence to step in when it matters most.
"It shows us how to notice the signs of discrimination, disrespect, and violence - and how to take action safely.
"Together, we can make our workplaces and communities places where everyone feels safe, respected, and included.”
