This week I attended an extremely important professional development session offered to members of the Rabbinical Council of Victoria by Jewish Care Victoria on the topic of family violence.

As I’ve spoken and written about on numerous occasions this is an issue from which the Jewish community is certainly not immune.

The session covered many aspects on this topic and some very powerful points were discussed. Of those points were some of the factors which might lead to men perpetrating violence against women and we all have a responsibility to stop these from happening.

They are often ingrained in the way people think and behave and it sometimes does require a full change in the culture of a work place, community group or even just among social groups. The factors included:

1. Condoning violence against women.

2. Men’s control of decision making.

3. Rigid gender roles and stereotyped constructions of masculinity and femininity.

4. Male peer relations that emphasize aggression and disrespect towards women.

We can all help make a difference.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any difficulties in this area please see some numbers below for resources that can assist.

Jewish Care Victoria 8517-5999
Orange Door 1800 319 353
1800Respect  1800 737 732
Safe Steps 1800 015 188
Men’s Referral Service 1300 766 491
WIRespect 1800 542 847

Shabbat Shalom

Rabbi Daniel Rabin