Culture: Normalized attitudes and behaviours at the root of sexual violence

Throughout many aspects of society, there exists examples of attitudes and behaviours which encourage, minimize, or trivialize sexual violence, while being labeled normal or “not serious.” This concept is commonly referred to as “rape culture” and, gone unchallenged, this normalization leads to the acceptance of, and apathy towards, various forms of sexual violence.

In this workshop, participants will gain understanding of this normalization process, discuss the impact it has on society, and practice how to intervene in behaviours using scenarios and facilitated group discussion.

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand common attitudes and behaviours that have been normalised in our culture and how they contribute to rape culture
• Learn how to recognize these attitudes and behaviours
• Gain practice intervening when confronted with these attitudes and behaviours