The Bigger Picture
We know that many men will never use physical or sexual violence against women and most men believe in equality between men and women.
Men’s violence against women and inequality towards women has its roots in the ways we have historically regarded women and men. Women were denied such basic rights as the right to vote, to pursue a career, to own property or to pursue higher education. Some countries still deny women these basic rights.
Even though laws and social policies have changed, inequities persist generation after generation because of the messages we give children about how we value women and men.
Many boys and men are taught to hide their emotions. They have been taught that feelings make them weak and feminine. But feelings are a part of being human. When we try to suppress feelings, they often re-emerge in the form of aggression and violence.
Many boys grow up witnessing violence in the home or directly experiencing violence themselves. Although this leads some boys and men to refuse to use violence themselves, it has taught others that the use of force is normal in personal relations.
The messages we receive as children stay with us as we become adults.
Sexism, gender inequality, violence against women, and homophobia are tied to how boys are socialized from a young age to accept strict views of masculinity. When boys and men step outside of expected masculine behaviour, they often experience demeaning and homophobic language and actions. It is important, then, to challenge homophobic comments and bullying among young men, to recognize and affirm sexual diversity, and to advocate for men and boys to freely express alternate and healthy forms of masculinity.
Why you?
You are a man.
Right now a younger man or boy is looking up to you for direction and guidance. Whether you know it or not this boy is watching the way you act, the way you speak, the way you treat women and interact with other men.
You can make a difference in the lives of younger men.
As an adult you have a unique opportunity to address issues affecting all our youth now and for the rest of their lives.
Most men will never use violence against women. But too many men are silent about violence. We need to speak up and speak out, letting the young men and boys around know that it’s not okay to use violence.
Violence against women affects us all.
On a personal level, the chances that you care about someone who has experienced violence are alarming. When you think about your daughters, spouses, mothers, sisters, aunts, cousins, colleagues, and friends, it’s obvious that something has to be done to bring about change.
