By Esther Lauaki
Community engagement with gender equality and inequality is as easy as dropping a “pin”, thanks to a new interactive map launched in Melton.
The interactive online Gender Equality Map lets users share experiences of gender equality and inequality where they live in real time.
The map, launched last week, was developed by CrowdSpot and Monash University and is being piloted in Melton and Darebin.
CrowdSpot director Anthony Aisenberg said that the map would use user-generated
data to form a picture of gender equality in Victoria and inform policy and urban design changes.
“The map empowers people of all ages and gender identities to easily share their experiences and feelings about their local area by placing a pin on the map,” Mr Aisenberg said. “This community collaboration provides useful insights for decision makers to improve neighborhoods.
“The results will be analysed by Monash University and CrowdSpot to help planners and communities better understand where inequality occurs.”
Map users drop a digital “pin” on locations where they have had positive or negative experiences of gender equality such as changeroom access, sexist advertising and pram accessibility.
Melton mayor Bob Turner is encouraging residents to embrace and use the Gender Equality Map pilot, which will run until late February.
“The feedback we get from the Gender Equality Map will help us make informed decisions when planning for and upgrading public spaces and facilities,” he said.
“It’s really important that people share their stories so we get a clearer picture of real life experiences in our community. I call on residents to get behind this initiative.”
View the map at bit.ly/2Qhg67z
