As part of a global campaign against gender-based violence, a Macedon Ranges photography competition aims to challenge gender stereotypes, expectations, and norms.
16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign established by the United Nations that aims to raise awareness and promote community action towards ending violence against women.
This year, Macedon Ranges council, with the support from Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, Maddisons of Gisborne, Safe and Equal, and Respect Victoria, is hosting a photography competition titled Free to be Me.
The theme of the competition is about living, working, and playing outside of gender stereotypes.
Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health community engagement and partnerships leader Lauren Tyrrell said the theme of the photography competition links strongly to the topic of gender-based violence.
“What we know from the research is some of the drivers of … gender-based violence is the really rigid gender norms, stereotypes and gender expectations,” Ms Tyrrell said.
She said the theme does not mean that people must avoid adhering to these norms and expectations, but rather aims to send the message that people do not strictly have to adhere to these.
Macedon Ranges community director Maria Weiss said the competition provided an opportunity for the local community to be actively involved in raising awareness of the issue.
Submissions for the competition closed on November 15, with the works to be exhibited at the Social Foundry in Kyneton from November 25 to December 10.
Voting for the People’s Choice awards opens on November 25, with winners of this category announced on December 11.
Details: yoursay.mrsc.vic.gov.au/free-be-me
