Cracking codes, breaking biases

The theme of IWD 2022 is #BreakTheBias, where people are asked to imagine a gender-equal world free from bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A diverse, equitable and inclusive world where difference is valued and celebrated. Gender-related conversations have been increasing in recent years, especially with movements like #MeToo - firmly putting these matters on the international agenda and has had an impact on the nation. We have seen a shift to a world that expects diversity, equity and inclusion, noticing its absence, and celebrating its presence. But it hasn’t always been this way.

Tewantin Noosa RSL Sub Branch Memberships Officer Robin Stopford knows only too well the struggles women have made for equality in the workplace.

In the mid-1960s, after graduating high school, it appeared to Robin she had two choices: - a career or married life. Her mother wanted her to become a teacher. Still, she chose to #BreakTheBias by stepping away from gender-stereotyped roles and following in her father’s footsteps and enlisting in the Royal Australian Navy.
 
Robin served for 20 years in the Navy, joining when women were not permitted to carry out active duty. She spent two decades deciphering code and providing vital communication between ships in peace and wartime. Robin was one of just six people qualified to perform such a critical communications role at the time.

 "It wasn’t the sort of job where you got up, went to work until four or five o’clock and clocked off” Robin explains.

Whether unconscious or not, gender bias impacts women’s lives. Recognising and calling it out is the first step forward. To help #BreakTheBias, it's time we celebrate all women who have served our country. 

 

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