Harwicz’s words revived old conversations with mothers. Timid, similar conversations filled with fear of being judged. The stories had certain common points: the prevalence of moments of exasperation during the postpartum period, the presence of delusions with intrusive thoughts related to their babies, and that all -every single one- felt shame, silenced their emotions, and went through this difficult time alone.

The gender pay gap is one of the most hotly argued shortcomings of a patriarchal world in Australian society. It has a direct effect on every aspect of women’s livelihoods, and is something that will take many decades to rectify.

It’s a fine line in allyship to rightly show up, but to not to make these conversations about yourself or your feelings.

Men can become champions of change by getting uncomfortable, examining their own behaviours (including the way they contribute to damaging sub-cultures) and becoming active contributors to advancing gender equality. A large part of this effort involves active listening - listening to women and their needs and experiences.

The first few months after I moved to Australia I discovered an activity I utterly enjoyed: people-watching. Everything was different and I thought everyone was so incredibly beautiful. It was fascinating and I was particularly amazed by how much some Aussies look after  their physical appearance. The astonishment lasted until the strings behind the puppet became apparent: that perfection -or the weight of having to reach that perfection- had a very large cost. 

Did you know that this week is Wear it Purple Day? I’ll admit, up until a few months ago, I didn’t know much about it either...

As a 28-year-old bisexual woman who went to a public performing arts high school that celebrated queerness, identity and individual expression, I’m shocked that Wear it Purple Day is only recently becoming an important calendar date for my workplace (and wardrobe!). Let’s talk about it!

Those who have worked closely with us will have caught wind of a ‘changing of guards’ happening within VOI. So, back to my first point. This ‘big’, ‘exciting’ news. What’s next for Voices of Influence Australia?... A new leadership team.

One of the most earth shattering outcomes of Roe v Wade is the dangerous message it sends to the world at large about how readily and easily a woman's right to choose can be removed. Choices is freedom. Choice is equality. Choice is balance. Choice is safety.