“Relax, it was just a joke”
Rarely is the problem that people don’t care. We all want safer, more respectful communities. We all want children and young people to grow up free from violence and harmful gender stereotypes. But that doesn’t mean we know how to start the conversation in a safe and effective way.
What do you say when someone repeats a sexist stereotype?
How do you talk about gender norms with children?
How do you challenge harmful attitudes without making people defensive or shutting people down?
These questions matter because gender-based violence often does not begin with physical violence. It grows in environments where inequality and disrespect are accepted as normal. Where rigid gender expectations are left unchallenged.
If we want to create safe futures, we need more people having better conversations, more often. Ready to be part of change?
Conversations that change culture
We Need To Talk is part of WAGEC’s prevention and education work to stop violence before it starts. Through resources, events, workshops and practical tools, we help people build confidence and skills to engage with conversations about gender equality, respect, inclusion and respectful relationships.
The campaign is designed for parents, carers, educators, workplaces, sporting clubs, community groups and anyone who wants to contribute to a future free from gender-based violence. Because changing culture does not happen through one big conversation. It happens through thousands of everyday ones that add up over time.
How to start the conversation
Get your conversation cards
Designed by WAGEC, the We Need To Talk cards turn difficult conversations into practical starting points. Each prompt is designed to spark reflection, challenge assumptions and encourage meaningful discussions about gender, equality and respect.
Visit the shop.
Bring the conversation to you
WAGEC delivers workshops and interactive sessions that help audiences better understand the role gender norms, stereotypes and attitudes play in shaping our communities. Sessions can be adapted for workplaces, schools, councils, conferences, community groups and events.
Contact us now.
Can a conversation really change anything?
Gender-based violence exists on a spectrum. At one end are everyday stereotypes, sexist assumptions and unequal expectations. At the other are coercive control, assault and abuse, even lethal violence. The connections between them are not always obvious, but they are real.
When we create space for conversations about fairness, respect, inclusion and equality, we help build the foundations for safer relationships, safer communities and safer futures. Creating change does not require having all the answers. It starts with being willing to ask questions, listen deeply, stay curious and keep talking.
Alongside frontline crisis support and recovery programs, this approach to stopping violence before it starts sits at the heart of WAGEC’s work to end gender-based violence in a generation.
Ending violence starts with a conversation
Every conversation is a chance to challenge a stereotype, deepen understanding or create a safer future. Together, we can change the story and end gender-based violence in a generation.
Learn more about our work
Explore how WAGEC supports women and families to heal beyond crisis.
Join the movement
Fund programs that help children recover from violence and build safer futures.
Visit the Resource Library
Explore resources and insights to better understand children’s experiences of violence.
beyond violence.
