As conversations around safety and gender equity continue to evolve, we often hear the refrain: “It’s not all men.” And that’s true. Many men are as appalled as women by gender-based violence and discrimination, and they, too, want to see a world where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. However, the undeniable reality is that women still face daily risks and challenges in their workplaces, communities, and homes. This reality is a call for everyone, including men, to actively engage in creating safer spaces.
Acknowledging the problem is one thing; standing up and taking action alongside women is another. We need men who are willing to step forward, who understand that true allyship means being part of the solution, not simply distancing themselves from the problem. This approach not only strengthens the efforts toward a safer world but also reinforces the message that a just society benefits everyone, regardless of gender.
Why Men’s Involvement Matters
Research consistently shows that workplaces and communities thrive when men participate actively in promoting safety, respect, and equity. Men’s involvement brings unique perspectives and amplifies the call for change in spheres where women may not always be heard. When men advocate for respectful behaviour, speak up against harmful stereotypes, and mentor others to do the same, they help shift societal norms in a powerful way.
When male colleagues take steps to foster a respectful work environment, it has a ripple effect that goes beyond immediate interactions. It promotes a culture where women feel safer sharing their experiences and voicing concerns, knowing they are supported by all peers, not just other women. This change is essential, especially in creating psychosocially safe workplaces, where mental health and well-being are prioritised, and everyone feels empowered to work without fear.
How Men Can Be Allies
For men looking to support and promote a safer world for women, here are some impactful ways to get involved:
- Listen and Learn: Understanding women’s experiences is foundational to change. Listening without judgment or defence allows men to empathise deeply and recognise the issues that may otherwise go unseen.
- Challenge Harmful Behaviours: Sometimes, standing up for change means addressing inappropriate jokes, stereotypes, or behaviours, even among friends. Creating a safe space often starts with disrupting unsafe language and actions, showing others that these behaviours aren’t tolerated.
- Lead by Example: Men in leadership positions have the power to set the tone. Modelling respectful interactions, valuing women’s contributions, and establishing policies that protect everyone’s safety set a standard for what’s acceptable.
- Mentorship and Support: Men can encourage other men to join in efforts to create safe spaces. By mentoring young men, fostering open discussions about respect, and supporting female colleagues, men create a cycle of positive influence.
- Advocate for Policies that Promote Safety: In workplaces, men can champion policies for harassment prevention, mental health support, and psychosocial safety. When men back these initiatives, it signals that these are issues for everyone, not just for women.
Building a Culture of Respect and Inclusion
In supporting women’s safety, men are helping build a world where future generations will feel more secure, respected, and valued. Boys and young men today will grow up seeing positive role models who value equity, integrity, and care. This visibility creates a culture where respect becomes the norm, not the exception.
The responsibility to foster safe spaces falls on all of us. By celebrating the men who already stand for change and encouraging others to join, we create an environment where “not all men” becomes “every man” standing up for what’s right. Together, we can create a safer, more inclusive world—one that we all share, support, and build side by side.
Let’s celebrate those who lead by example, and let’s invite even more to join the effort.
