The University of Wollongong will hold its first Respect Week in just under a week.
The week is all about having open and honest conversations about issues not typically spoken about whilst also celebrating the University's diverse community.
The recent National Student Safety Survey in Australia revealed that one in six students had experienced sexual harassment or abuse. According to other statistics, one in three has been bullied based on race, cultural affiliation or gender. UOW Respect Week is a pledge to stand up in solidarity for those victims by exploring how the community can eliminate sexual and gender-based violence and shape the next generation of respectful communities.
The week will involve BBQs, live music, events, and conversations to spread awareness and promote a more inclusive way of thinking. Daily panel discussions, training opportunities for staff and students, and activities based around cultural respect, sexual harassment and assault, equity, diversity and inclusion.
Workshops on bystander intervention will also be running, Empower Hour lunchtime panel discussions, resource hubs for students and staff, drop-in sessions with UOW support services and FREE doughnuts!!
UOW Respect Week is organised around five major themes: Cultural Courage, Beyond the Binary, Breaking the Cycle, Consent Conversations and Accessibility Awareness. With local activists, University academics and students leading discussions, workshops and activities.
Respect Week will provide the opportunity to remind our University community that any forms of violence, abuse and harassment are never okay. UOW will always strive to be a safe space for all."
UOW's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Patricia M. Davidson.
One of Respect Week's highlights will be the address delivered by Grace Tame, the 2021 recipient of The Australian of the Year Award. Tame will talk to UOW students and staff on the 1st of September (Thursday) as part of an 'Afternoon with Grace Tame' event.
With additional guests including, but not limited to, triple j's Lucy Smith, Wollongong local Drag Queen Lauren Order and UOW social science student Amy Livermore, known for her TikTok account, Bogan Barbie.
Violence, abuse and harassment happen to people every day, which is not okay. Be part of the transformation and learn how to shape the next generation of respect by participating in the annual UOW Respect Week. Students, staff and the Wollongong community are all encouraged to attend. More information about UOW Respect Week and registration details can be found via https://uow.info/respectweek.
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