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Council Replaces The ‘Walk/Don’t Walk’ Man With A Woman

Council replaces the ‘Walk/Don’t Walk’ man with a woman

A council is replacing the ‘Walk/Don’t Walk’ man with a woman at pedestrian crossings to promote gender equality.

However, critics say the decision is a token gesture and a waste of time.

Council replaces the ‘Walk don’t walk’ man

The Brimbank Council in Melbourne says it wants female figures at crossings to show women and girls they are important and valued in the community.

Mayor Margaret Giudice says:

“We know that improving gender equality leads to very positive outcomes for organisations and for our community.

“Research shows societies with greater gender equality have lower rates of violence towards women and children.”

Token gesture

Despite this, critics call the female crossings “a token gesture” and “a waste of time”.

For example, Ratepayers Victoria vice president Frank Sullivan says the council is “out of touch” and should focus on “more pressing issues”.

“Councillors have got to realise what they are elected to do…

“They are completely out of touch and they’re moving into things that don’t concern them.”

Ten female pedestrian lights have already been installed at intersections in Melbourne’s city centre.

Gender equality important

Miles Heffernan from Discrimination Claims is a gender equality supporter, however, he questions the value of the crossings.

“I guess if it doesn’t cost any more, there’s nothing wrong with it,” he said.

“However, the council should also spend resources making sure there is no discrimination or gender pay-gaps in its organisation.”

The council is awaiting final approval from Vic Roads before installing the new pedestrian crossings.


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