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Challengingstereotypesofanysortisessentialtopromotinginclusionandequality.Figure2.25outlinessome thingswecan dotochallengestereotypes.

FIGURE2.25 Howtochallengestereotypes

Believe that it’s important for everyone to have the same opportunities and resources. Reject the idea that discrimination is okay. Believe that it’s important to be equitable and inclusive. Don’t think of gender inequality as only a women’s issue. Be aware that a stereotype creates an emotional bias. Think about why it exists. Value diversity as a resource rather than something to be feared.

Attitudes

Relationships

Be able to have open and assertive conversations. Respect and hear the voices of those who are discriminated against. Remember that there are no traits, behaviours or preferences that are common to all women, or to all men. Consider what you have in common with others rather than differences. Develop empathy for others and try to ‘walk in their shoes’.

Norms

Language

Media and advertising representations

Treat everyone as an individual with unique characteristics and respect them for it. Celebrate men who show vulnerability and help-seeking behaviour. Embrace everyone’s participation in all sports and representation of everyone in the media. Understand that stereotypes about gender, culture or religion are outdated and limiting.

Use alternatives to common gendered nouns and pronouns. For example, use ‘police officer’ rather than ‘policeman’ or ‘policewoman’ and use the third person ‘they’. Do not provide irrelevant information about people’s gender or cultural background (e.g. a female teacher or an Asian lawyer).

Use inclusive, positive language. For example, rather than saying something like ‘Real men show their emotions’, say ‘It’s healthy to show emotions’.

Reflect the diversity of gender, culture and ability in the population by including a wide range of people in digital and print media.

Make sure to check how roles are shown. For example, are only males shown in positions of power, or are all nurses shown as female? If so, change this to better represent the diverse population.

Laws and policies

Support and abide by laws regulating the use of stereotypes in advertising. Abide by gender discrimination policies. Support human rights actions