Mannix Champions Respect, Inclusion, and Equality During Respect at Uni Week

In an era where fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and equality is more critical than ever, Mannix College embraces the opportunity to be a sector leader in advocacy and action. 

The college actively participated in Respect at Uni Week from March 18-22, a cornerstone initiative aiming to unite Monash University and all Victorian universities in the fight against gender-based violence and sexual harm. 

This week aligns with the overarching goals of the National Student Safety Survey, focusing on promoting awareness and driving change. Mannix showcased its steadfast commitment to nurturing a safer and more inclusive community through a series of deeply engaging and impactful events.

A Beacon of Respect: The Mannix Formal Dinner

The week’s marquee event, the Respect at Mannix Formal Dinner, gathered 320 residents, creating a powerful forum for dialogue and reflection. The evening was highlighted by Bailey Webb, an Old Collegian renowned for their work as a diversity and inclusion educator and adviser.

Bailey’s keynote address ventured deep into the complexities of gender norms and stereotypes, proposing a vision of a society rooted in mutual respect and inclusivity. Their call to reevaluate and challenge the prevailing gender narratives resonated with the audience, emphasising the necessity of cultivating a community environment where everyone is welcomed and valued.

Bailey sharing his perspectives

Bailey’s Food For Thought

“Masculinity is not singular. It is plural. Masculinities is the reality. The pressure that we put on men by referring to the idea of a real man is a falsehood that damages men.”

This quote underscores the diversity of masculine experiences and identities, advocating for a broader acceptance of individual expressions of gender that reject restrictive stereotypes.

“You can and should feel free to be yourself and engage in traits that feel right to you. I personally have felt so empowered since I stopped trying to be stoic and owned my mental health and vulnerability.”

Here, Bailey offers a personal testament to the liberating power of embracing one’s true self. He challenges the traditional norms of stoicism often associated with masculinity and encourages a culture of openness and vulnerability.

Launching the 2024 Respect at Mannix Advisory Committee

A highlight of the Formal Dinner was the introduction of the 2024 Respect at Mannix Advisory Committee by Deputy Chair Eliza Lane. This initiative represents a significant step forward in Mannix College’s commitment to fostering a respectful and safe environment. The committee members, including Eliza Lane, Brooke Francis, Grace Burns, Madeleine Steer, Cristina Perez, Rommiel Malig, Hailey Moffatt, Ashhar Hassan, Viki Gohil, Kavi Thevashangar, Xavier Kelly, Andrew Swan, and Annie McGuire, bring diverse strengths and a shared dedication to promoting respect, safety, and inclusivity at Mannix College. 

Mannix has a comprehensive training program for over 30 individuals, including staff and student leaders, to enhance the support system and visibility of its pastoral care and student safety initiatives. This program focuses on equipping these dedicated members with the necessary skills to effectively respond to disclosures of sexual harm and issues pertaining to gender equity, safety, and support. To ensure that all residents know the extensive support network available, these trained members were officially introduced to the Mannix community during the Formal Dinner.

Eliza Lane speaking at Formal Dinner

Empowerment Through Self-Defence: A Feminist Approach

In addition to thought-provoking discussions, the week featured a feminist self-defence class held in the Junior Common Room. Facilitated by an expert practitioner, the class empowered participants with essential skills and knowledge for personal safety and well-being, reinforcing the week’s themes of empowerment and resilience.

Feminist Self Defence Class

A United Stand Against Gender-Based Violence

Reflecting on the transformative impact of Respect at Uni Week, Principal Andrew Swan emphasised the importance of leadership through action. “Our engagement in Respect at Uni Week underscores Mannix College’s deep-seated belief in leading by example to combat gender-based violence. Through initiatives like the ‘Respect at Mannix’ Formal Dinner and our empowering self-defence class, we are steadfast in building a community foundation based on respect, inclusion, and equality. Together, we are committed to ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students.”

Mannix residents enjoying Formal Dinner

Mannix College’s active participation in Respect at Uni Week is a testament to its unwavering dedication to creating a campus culture where every member feels respected, safe, and valued. Through meaningful dialogue, educational initiatives, and the Respect at Mannix Advisory Committee launch, Mannix College continues to lead by example in the collective effort to eradicate gender-based violence and foster an environment of equality and inclusivity.