16 Days - Post #11 - 5 December 2024

Gender-based violence is a men's issue. That is, it is clearly tied to ideas of manhood that favour aggression and dominance. As a man, I am privileged in that I don't really worry about walking around my neighbourhood at night. I don't worry about being groped while squeezing into a crowded subway car. I don't think a lot about whether the clothing I wear will garner unwanted attention. And I don't worry about my boss making sexual advances towards me (that could end up with me losing my job if I don't respond in the desired way). I'm learning more about patriarchy, 'toxic masculinity,' and the importance of men being more educated on this subject.

Check out this TED Talk that discusses changes in the way men think of themselves as a necessary step in ending GBV: