By Tori Vandelinde on December 3, 2018

Re-Envisioning Community Norms: Social norms change as a sexual and domestic violence prevention strategy

What are social norms and how are they related to our sexual and relational safety? Norms shape our beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors, and influence our sense of what’s acceptable and not acceptable within a community or society at large. When we understand norms as a key factor that shapes the likelihood of sexual and domestic violence, we can see more clearly what needs to change and which strategies will be effective. In this web conference, we will explore why changing norms requires more than a single program, but rather comprehensive actions across where we live, work, and play. Through norms change we can move toward equity, accountability, and justice and a more expansive understanding of gender — all rooted in respect for people to live free from violence.

OBJECTIVES

Outline norms that contribute to sexual and domestic violence and what is needed to address them
Explore how communities are changing norms to prevent sexual and domestic violence through a multitude of strategies
Discuss how advocates are tying their efforts to broader conversations and momentum (e.g. #MeToo), including successes and challenges.

HOST: Ashleigh Klein-Jimenez & Tori VandeLinde, PreventConnect and CALCASA

FACILITATOR: Alisha Somji & Abena Asare, Prevention Institute

MATERIALS: