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Participate

Just like the athletic slogan says, "Just Do It"
You don't need any special training to get started. There are ways to let others know that violence against women is just not okay. Here's a few simple ideas that can make a big difference.

• Speak up if you hear a sexist or derogatory joke or comment towards women

• Teach other men and young men about healthy relationships

• Don't be a passive bystander when you see violence happening or a potential situation for violence

• Teach young men and boys through your example that being a man means possessing virtue, empathy, affection, tolerance, trust, kindness and respect. It's not about power, control, force, being aggressive, racism, ignorance or violence.

• Share messages on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram etc.) about issues that impact violence against women, sexual assault and the true meaning of masculinity

• Have the courage to look inward. Check in about your own attitudes and thoughts. Do you need to change how you think about human rights in general, sexism and violence?

• Be an ally to women who are working to end all forms of abuse.

• Attend community events like Take Back the Night, and Walk A Mile In Her Shoes

• Raise money for the women's shelters in your community.

• Educate yourself. Read books, take courses, attend conferences, watch films about gender inequality, true masculinity, and the root causes of gender violence. ie: "Miss Representation" and "The Mask You Live In".

• Refuse to purchase any magazines, videos, music or subscribe to websites or apps that portray women in a sexually degrading or abusive manner.

• If you suspect that a woman you know is being abused, offer your help.

• Don't remain silent! If you suspect a friend, family member, co-worker or teammate is abusive or disrespectful to girls or women - don't look the other way. If you feel comfortable, talk to him about it. Urge him to get help. If you don't know what to do, talk to someone about it for guidance. A professional, a teacher, a counsellor or a parent. But don't remain silent!

• Join groups like Durham Men Take Action or others that support women and issues surrounding gender violence. Also see:

• White Ribbon Campaign, Man Up, and Men Stopping Violence.

• Enroll in a Bystander Approach Intervention Program to learn how you can become a motivated, active bystander who speaks out against violence