What you need to know about today's #March4Justice
Today, we thought we would take a deep dive on the 'March4Justice'. Over the weekend, we had a lot of friends ask for information on these marches, so we thought we’d consolidate all that advice into this newsletter!
Why are people marching?
In the words of the organisers, the aim is to call for “all politicians to address and put an end to the issues of sexism, misogyny, dangerous workplace cultures and lack of equality in politics and the community at large.”
Are there any specific demands?
Yes. As well as a full, independent investigation into instances of gendered violence in politics, protesters are asking for the full implementation of the 55 recommendations put forward in Respect@Work, which was the Australian Human Rights Commission’s 2020 report of the National Inquiry into Sexual Harassment.
How did all of this start?
On March 2, Melbourne academic Janine Hendry tweeted asking how many women would be needed to form a circle around Federal Parliament on the first sitting day since International Women’s Day, which was on March 8. The protest was originally over the handling of the alleged rape of former Liberal party staffer Brittany Higgins inside Parliament House, but now includes the historical rape allegation levelled at Attorney-General Christian Porter. When Hendry’s tweet went viral, the day of protest grew into a national movement.
What about COVID-19?
March4Justice organisers have asked all participants to wear face masks and bring hand sanitisers. They’ve also asked for everyone to maintain appropriate social distancing where possible. At the moment, none of the 43 planned marches around the country have been banned by local authorities.
How can you participate if you aren’t going to the march?
March4Justice is calling on Australians to sign this petition ahead of the protest. They say if you can’t attend the march, this is the next best way to show your support.