By ANEEKA SIMONIS
A MAN who works with some of the community’s most vulnerable women day to day has just been signed on as one of the newest family violence prevention campaigners.
Outlook CEO Tony Fitzgerald was recently approved as a White Ribbon Ambassador, taking the oath to never commit, excuse or remain silent about violence against women.
Though he upholds these commitments each day as part of his role working with disadvantaged community members including domestic violence victims, Mr Fitzgerald said he plans to use his new role to spread a message of intolerance directed at behaviours supporting gender discrimination and violence.
“We know that not all men are the perpetrators of violence against women, but the majority of violence against women is perpetrated by men. Blokes need the tools to help them say to other men that sexist comments, behaviour and violence is just not acceptable,” Tony said.
Outlook has been set up on the principle of inclusiveness, with no form of violence tolerated.
Mr Fitzgerald assured that there were strong policies and procedures in place within Outlook to ensure that there was no bullying, harassment or discrimination and that everyone who comes to Outlook, or interacts with Outlook, feels safe.
“Outlook works with some of the most vulnerable women in the community and it is imperative our staff is fully across issues of gender violence and abuse so they can offer appropriate support if and when these issue arise,” he said.
Mr Fitzgerald was named Pakenham Gazette’s Person of the Year 2014.
He was selected as a White Ribbon Ambassador based on his understanding of gendered violence in addition to his strong belief in men needing to take a stand against the issue.
