Real Men Talking launches in Redbridge

Community activists/local men from Redbridge are speaking out against misogyny in a new initiative designed to spark conversations about women's and girls' safety across the borough. 

Real Men Talking recently launched – with local community activist Taiwo Ademola offering an overview of what misogyny means for men – and why it's men who need to listen up and change their behaviour – not women.

The launch is timed to coincide with 16 days of activism – a UN-backed global initiative that shines a spotlight on efforts to tackle sexist harassment and abuse faced by women and girls across the world. 

Sexist harassment might be a national problem, but Redbridge men are on the front foot when it comes to creating change locally. Community activists Irfan Shah (Frenford Youth Club), Stephen Addison (Box Up Crime), Nathan Singleton (Lifeline), and Redbridge Crime Commissioner Taiwo Ademola are showing – in words and actions - how men of all ages can create a safer borough. 

The local men have produced a range of materials to help others learn more. From the TikTok channel 'Real Men Talking' to bystander training and bitesize workshops, these spokespeople challenge others to join the conversation.

However, the real targets of this work are the ones whose silence might unwittingly help those who perpetrate sexist behaviours. Over the coming weeks, additional content from other community leaders will help amplify this as a platform to discuss change and highlight the challenge locally and beyond. 

Real Men Talking is a dedicated TikTok Channel creating a space to discuss men's role in understanding the issues surrounding misogyny and sexist behaviour and creating change. Over the coming months, Taiwo and other residents will share their views and point out how men can get involved. 

Cllr Jas Athwal, Leader of Redbridge Council, said: "Sexism and misogyny have no place in Redbridge, and we’re supporting local people to help stamp out harassment and abuse. Our Real Men of Redbridge campaign puts community leaders in the spotlight, sharing their stories and advice on stepping up and calling out abuse. 

"They provide simple, practical tips about how to challenge your friends and an insight into how to stop sexist harassment from happening in the first place. By calling out unacceptable behaviour, we can all play our part to end sexist harassment and make the world a safer and better place for everyone.”

Cllr Khayer Chowdhury, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, said: "A small minority of men can make life difficult for women on our streets, but collectively, we all have a responsibility to stamp out this behaviour. 

“We can't be silent on this matter, as keeping quiet won't solve the problem. But for those who do sexually harass women on the street, the government is changing the law, which will allow police to prosecute offenders. Time is up for catcalling and other forms of sexual harassment that target women.”

Resident Taiwo Ademola said: "Men talk to men, and we have a key role in improving attitudes and behaviour from a quiet word to a more in-depth discussion. We're all on a journey to understand and do better. Why would I not stand up and challenge sexist harassment? Why would anyone stay silent on that?."

'Real Men Talking' is the latest instalment of ThisHasToStop, a multi-year initiative to challenge sexist behaviour. The programme aims to end the harassment and abuse of women and girls, making it clear that in Redbridge, there is 'No place for abuse'.