UnionsACT has called on the ACT Government to introduce stronger restrictions on sexist and degrading advertising that objectifies women, following a snap rally on International Women’s Day protesting Geocon’s sexist ads.
Sexist advertising that objectifies or disrespects women is linked to increased prevalence of gendered violence and sexual harassment.
UnionsACT has established a public petition, calling for the ACT Government to introduce restrictions on degrading and sexist advertising that violates community expectations.
Petition link: https://www.megaphone.org.au/p/cbrbansexistads
UnionsACT has also written to Geocon, calling on them to voluntarily remove the sexist billboards advertising the Tryst and Wova developments.
The following quotes are attributable to Emma Turner, convenor, UnionsACT Women’s Committee:
“The Canberra community overwhelmingly rejects the sexist objectification of women’s bodies that corporations like Geocon are smothering the ACT with.
“The fact large corporations like Geocon insist on ever more sexist ads across the ACT gives us a clear insight into their corporate culture: they just don’t care about respecting women.
“Widespread use of images that sexualise and objectify women in ads undermines efforts to promote gender equality and are highly problematic for the prevention of family violence and sexual harassment against women.”
“If companies like Geocon won’t act responsibly, the Government needs to step in.”
The following quotes are attributable to Alex White, secretary of UnionsACT:
“Unions in Canberra strongly oppose demeaning, sexist and degrading ads.
“Cities around the world have introduced restrictions on advertising that demeans and degrades women, and it’s time for Canberra to do likewise.”
