05/12/2017
We, as independent theatre companies and practitioners of Australia, stand in solidarity with all victims of sexual harassment and assault, in our industry, in all workplaces, and the wider community.
We want to end the culture of silence at all levels.
We are committed to zero tolerance of this behaviour in our rehearsal rooms and offices, on our stages, on our sets, in our workplaces, in the street, and in our homes.
Too often, however, we have failed to commit sufficient resources and attention to protect the vulnerable from abuses of power. And we have entered into partnerships with organisations without having the courage to demand and pursue their commitment to a safe work environment.
We will no longer tolerate this climate of fear and silence.
We call upon our community, our industry, and - especially - those in positions of power in the sector, to
- swiftly and unreservedly condemn sexual abuse and harassment in their workplaces;
- immediately develop robust and thorough policies and procedures for reporting and eliminating sexual harrassment and assault that adhere to a national standard;
- offer complete transparency about processes of complaint;
- maintain absolute confidentiality of complainants;
- offer support to victims as they come forward;
- hold all existing partner organisations and employees to this identical standard.
We need to stand together, in order to bring this culture of abuse to an effective, consistent and immediate end.
For those seeking help, or someone to speak to, please see the following links:
https://www.1800respect.org.au
casa.org.au- 1800 806 292
whv.org.au- (03)9664 9300
MEAA: (for performers)- 1300 656 513
Women's Health Victoria, an independent health promotion agency working through a clearinghouse to provide health information, advocacy and capacity building
