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Take Action

There are many aspects of our society that foster attitudes and beliefs that allow violence to happen. For example, gender role stereotypes and media images that portray men as strong and in control and women as passive and vulnerable, or homophobic beliefs that deny the rights of same-sex relationships.

In order to end interpersonal violence we must challenge the social and cultural factors that contribute to it. This might seem like an impossible task at first. However, there are ways that each of us can address violence in our daily lives. Commit to taking one action step today and follow through on it. Remember - every single step you take makes a difference.

The following are some suggestions for action that everyone can take:

Make Connections

Any imbalance of power in our society contributes to the dynamics that allow violence to happen. We all need to work to confront these imbalances and replace them with positive messages that allow for the empowerment of all individuals.

• Recognize the way stereotypes impact our interactions with others. Replace stereotypes with images that are based on reality.
• Create an environment in which children can learn to be individuals free from gender specific roles. All children must learn to be individuals with self-confidence and have the skills to express their emotions: girls can be strong and boys can cry.
• Support individual's efforts to change socialization the perpetuates gender specific roles.
• Use non-sexist language in conversation and writing.
• Ensure equal opportunity in the workplace.

Speak Out

One of the reasons violence is so prevalent is that people rarely talk about it. This silence creates a social atmosphere that denies the problem and isolates victims. To end violence we must break the silence and speak out.

• Be assertive, interrupt language, jokes and conversations that are sexist and oppressive.
• Talk openly about the problem of violence. Share your knowledge.
• Invite a speaker to your school, community group, workplace, church, etc. to talk about violence.
• Recognize and challenge misconceptions and hurtful stereotypes and violence and victims of violence.
• Support other people's efforts to speak out.

Raise Your Concerns in Your Community

• Recognize the role society and social images play in perpetuating violence.
• Send your written objection to advertisers who sexually objectify women and children, boycott their products, send copies of your letters to your local newspapers, public action groups. etc.
• Voice your objections to store owners who use offensive advertising.
• Call TV stations to object to programs that link sex and violence.
• Contact radio stations and local newspapers and encourage them to provide sensitive, information and responsible coverage of sexual assault and intimate partner violence issues. Support them when they do.
• Protest theaters, playhouses, etc. that run films and shows which reinforce harmful stereotypes.

Take Political Action

Use your voting voice and awareness to influence legislative decision-making.

• Know your legislators' voting records on pertinent issues.
• Vote to support legislators who are working to improve laws about sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and women's position in society.
• Be aware of pending legislation concerning sexual assault and intimate partner violence. Express your opinions to your legislators.
• Challenge public figures whose voting records and public statements perpetuate negative stereotypes and contribute to oppression.

Make Personal Safety A Priority

Consider your safety and the safety of others important. Take steps to build the safety of yourself and your community. Give children personal safety information including direct, accurate, non-threatening information about violence.

• Support human sexuality, child sexual abuse prevention and violence prevention curricula in your schools. If there is none in place, insist that one be implemented.
• Consider taking a self-defense class. Support other's decisions to do so. Consult your local sexual assault and intimate partner violence center for guidance in selecting one that is appropriate for you.
• Be alert to potentially dangerous situations and offer to assist people who may be in trouble.
• Support and/or organize a community watch program in your neighborhood.
• Volunteer and make financial contributions to community organizations working for change.

Get Involved