It can be hard to understand what leads someone to think they are entitled to take advantage of someone elses body without permission.
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But if society hopes to initiate lasting and comprehensive change to the rate of sexual assaults, it must begin to understand what led to this scourge in the first place.
Since launching the Hands Off campaign, organisations, events and individuals have come out in support of those who have been victims of sexual assault.
Party in the Paddock creative director Jesse Higgs has condemned sexual assaults at festivals, saying, “There needs to be a loud and clear message that this kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable absolutely anywhere”.
Organisers of Esk Beerfest, Festivale and matches at the council-owned University of Tasmania Stadium, have all sent a strong message that sexual assault will not be tolerated.
It is brilliant to have this response and this level of commitment to making public places safe for all, but the underlying issues also need to be addressed.
To be able to initiate change in individuals, we must understand the factors that contribute to a world view where women are sexual objects, there for enjoyment and entertainment regardless of whether consent is given.
While it may make us uncomfortable, we must not simply rail against those that perpetrate sexual violence, we must also question why they do it.
Without this questioning we cannot begin to understand, without understanding, society cannot begin to change.
If society is to only respond to the problem in a reactive way, we have miserably failed the women and men who have, and continue to, suffer as victims of sexual violence.
Let’s all take Hands Off as a chance to pause, examine ourselves, and think about the impact our thoughts and actions have in continuing a culture where sexual assault is accepted because “everybody gets groped in the mosh pit”.
Let’s all be aware of the way our actions are perceived by our children, so we can make sure the next generation values respect of each individual, whether male or female.
Let’s use this momentum to not only address the symptom, but fix the cause.
If you need help, call Sexual Assault Support Service on 1800 697 877.