There's no excuse for violence against women. EVER.
Each year OAITH (Ontario Association of Interval & Transition Houses) creates a list of faces and names of women and children who lost their lives because of Domestic Violence.
In 2018 there were 48. You can get the Femicide List here.
Please share it on all of your social media feeds.
#loveshouldnthurt #livesthatmatter #endviolenceagainstwomennow
I'm really excited about this Internet Safety Guide published by VPN Mentor, authorities on web privacy.
As we know, online tools used for abuse and harassment of women, are social media platforms. More than ever before, women are experiencing threatening messages, being tracked, sent unwanted sexually explicit images, and having their privacy invaded.
This guide empowers women to navigate the internet in safety and without fear. There's tons of information, tips and advice, regarding harassment - "on social media, at work, while dating and more...and how women can take control." vpn mentor
Check it out and be sure to share it with all the women you know.
#loveshouldnthurt #internetsafety #everywoman
The global collection of women's experiences can no longer be ignored, says actress and activist Tracee Ellis Ross. In a candid, fearless talk, she delivers invitations to a better future to both men and women.
Spring is coming - I promise! After such a long winter we're all looking forward to it.
It's an exciting time of renewal, regeneration, and new beginnings. It's also a time for planting seeds. Seeds that bring hope for a better future - hope for change.
This past month, our community was rocked yet again, with the senseless loss of Three. More. Lives. Three lives violently taken in the name of "love".
Even with the current movements of #metoo, #timesup, #itsneverokay, #pressforprogress and our very own #loveshouldnhurt, at times like this, it's difficult to feel like we are making the slightest bit of difference or progress. Regardless of the ongoing work and effort to help women whose lives are impacted by abuse and violence, every day, in every community - it's still not enough.
This month, we are calling on men to take the lead for planting the seeds necessary for real change. We need your leadership, your voice and your action to ensure that #loveshouldnthurt - that it will stop hurting so many women and children.
We need ordinary, everyday guys - our friends, husbands, brothers, relatives, neighbours, coworkers and colleagues to let others know that "It's Never Okay!". The infographic below might give you ideas on where to start - or click Here and Here for more information about what you can do.
Let us know what you are doing to plant seeds of change. Share with us here, on Twitter or Facebook. Tag us using #loveshouldnthurt #vpccdurham #loveshouldnthurtdurham @vpcc8 and please share this message with other men like yourself.
How many squares do you see?
Most can see the obvious sixteen squares. But if you look a little longer you will see that in addition to the sixteen squares, there are nine two-by-two squares, four three-by-three squares, and one large four-by-four square, which brings the total to thirty. It's interesting that the squares were always there but you may not have found them until you looked harder..
So what does this puzzle have to do with violence prevention?
I've been giving a lot of thought over the last few days, to the tragic deaths of Ajax residents, Krassimira Pejcinovski and her two teenage children.
Since the beginning of 2018, eight females in the GTA have allegedly been killed by a man they were in a relationship with. I'm haunted by the thought of another woman's life being snuffed out and like many of you, wonder what it will take to make it stop.
Violence prevention is like the square puzzle. There's always another square, another possibility, if we just keep looking for it and the clue to "another square, another possibility" may be more obvious than we think.
Farrah Khan, coordinator of Ryerson University's Office of Sexual Violence Support and Education, said, "Community members, rather than justice or violence prevention workers, are often best positioned to take meaningful, potentially life-saving action."
"Most survivors don't talk to professionals. They talk to their neighbour, they talk to a friend, they talk to a family member," Khan said. "We have to have the opportunity to build our muscles as a community...to actually intervene and name when these things are happening and connect our friends and loved ones to the supports that they need to survive."
WE are those community members. We are the hidden "square in the puzzle". We have the power and influence to help prevent violence against women and to save lives. We are the David to the domestic violence giant, Goliath. The menacing warrior that was defeated by a shepherd boy,.equipped with nothing more than a sling and some stones.
As a community, we can arm ourselves with stones in the form of information; becoming more aware of warning signs and gathering resources to share. We can observe, listen and believe. We can let our politicians know that there is no excuse for violence against women and that the growing number of domestic homicides is NOT OKAY. We can tell those in political power, that they need to start using their positions of influence to take a stand for the communities for which they have stewardship and responsibility. We are a community that can make all the difference for a woman and her children.
There has never been a better time for the #loveshouldnthurt campaign because it's all about community getting involved. Check out the VPCC website for resources and updates on #lovshouldnthurt
You can also Save-The-Date and join us for a Provincial Candidate's Forum on May 3, 2018 at the Abilities Centre in Whitby, to learn more about what our provincial leaders understand regarding the diverse needs and realities of our communities and how they plan to tackle the issues that are important to women and families living in the Durham Region.
#loveshouldnthurt. But. It. Does.
What do you think can be done to end violence against women? #loveshouldnthurt #loveshouldnthurtdurham #davidandgoliath #communitypower #vpccdurham
Justin Baldoni actor, director, social entrepreneur and co-founder of Wayfarer Entertainment is challenging men to engage in redefining masculinity and figuring out ways to not just be good men, but good humans. Baldoni may be best known for his role as Rafael in "Jane the Virgin" and his ultra-successful Ted Talk.
Along with guests like, The Daily Show's, Hasan Minhaj, John Legend, Prince Ea, Derek Hough, currently the host for the popular dance competition show, "The World of Dance", Javier Munoz from the smash Broadway hit, "Hamilton" and Matt McGorry of "Orange is the New Black"; Baldoni is challenging guys to redefine male stereotypes like strength, bravery, and toughness through his new talk show "Man Enough". Watch Episode 1 Here.
I think it's a great way to start the conversation. Take a look and leave your comments below. Don't forget to "Like" and "Share".
Elizabeth Pierce, Executive Director, Catholic Family Services of Durham
(Not everyone was able to make it to the #loveshouldnthurt Campaign Launch, so I wanted to give you a sample of the fantastic keynote address, Elizabeth Pierce shared. Here it is below....)
"The Violence Prevention Coordinating Council (VPCC) is comprised of 32 member organizations in this Region, who are committed to addressing the issues of violence in our community.
"We meet monthly, educating one another about the work being done to address the issues of violence against women, which affects the youngest to the oldest and the most vulnerable in our Region. We also intentionally plan community events to build capacity, increase awareness and be a catalyst for change regarding violence in Durham Region.
"This year, as we considered what we would do to mark November Woman Abuse Awareness month, we were at a loss. Despite some excellent, past events - partnering with Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) to bring in experts like Jackson Katz and White Ribbon Campaign - the issue of violence against women in Durham continues to intensify, and the interest from the broader community to be part of the solution, continues to stagnate.
"This year we realized that we needed to do something different. Our goal as a group of agencies is not to be event planners, but to actually be a catalyst for violence prevention through our coordinating efforts.
"We needed to find a way to reach people of all ages, stages, sectors and genders, to educate, and bring awareness to the issues of violence against women, so that we, as a community of service providers and members alike, can begin to change the landscape of our Region.
"Because right now, the landscape is not very lush and appealing with respect to the prevention of violence. Here are the realities we discuss each month:
"The VPCC decided, these statistics are unacceptable. That the year after year increase in these numbers, has got to stop.
"It wasn't many years ago that DRPS responded to 13-14 domestic calls per day. It's now up to 21 calls per day. It wasn't so long ago that "the domestic murder" in Durham was Gillian Hadley,an anomaly at the time. This year there has been four domestic homicides so far.
"We believe that making our Region safer for women benefits everyone. The fewer women that are abused, the fewer children there are exposed to that trauma. The fewer children that are exposed to violence against women, the less likely they are to grow up with anger, mental health, learning and emotional and relational challenges.
"If the emotional, "touchy, feely" isn't as compelling as the business case - then here's the other side: Domestic violence costs the nation over 7 billion dollars each year. The fewer women there are being abused, the less need there will be for costly services such as emergency room visits, doctors, EMS, police, the judicial system and lost days to the workplace.
"It's good and right that we have a month to mark Woman Abuse Awareness. It matters. But, historically, for most people who aren't doing the work on a daily basis, the focus towards this issue tends to diminish.
"Imagine if after October; Child Abuse Awareness month, everyone forgot about standing against child abuse, reporting child abuse, speaking out against child abuse and addressing child abuse. We'd have a big problem. As it should be, child abuse prevention is actually a daily activity here in Durham Region.
We need a change with respect to domestic violence. This is not just a women's problem. And truth be told, it's not something that those of us who work with victims, can stop all on our own. We need everyone. And we need to get the word out - that Love Shouldn't Hurt. Not just in November, but all year long.
This is why we're here today. To launch the #loveshouldnthurt Campaign. It starts today, November 17, 2017 and will continue through to next November. We have buttons, stickers, post cards and posters that you can take with you - or contact info@vpccdurham.org to place an order for your workplace. We will be posting these at UOIT and Durham College as well.
"Our hope is that if you aren't already doing so, you will join us in the fight to ensure that love doesn't hurt and to eliminate violence against women. Even if you are already part of the fight, begin the conversation that #loveshouldnthurt with your colleagues, friends and family - where ever your sphere of influence extends.
"We would love for each person here today to be a champion for this campaign. Check your email the first Monday of every month for articles, resources, up-to-date news coverage, research or videos, to share with your community, raise awareness and to continue the conversation. Contact info@vpccdurham.org to be added to the mailing list.
"We hope you will join the VPCC during the month of February, 2018 - the month when love is celebrated. Encourage everyone in your workplace to fill out commitment cards with an action they will take, to be part of the solution and the message that #loveshouldnthurt.
"Our lofty goal for this Campaign is to increase the awareness and ripple effect in people's lives, behaviours, attitudes, treatment of one another and beliefs about relationships. The VPCC hopes that our membership of 32 agencies, will be joined by a throng of workplaces, organizations, individuals and groups in the fight against gender-based violence, to ensure that our Region is a safer place for women and children."
#loveshouldnthurt #endviolenceagainstwomen #workingtogether
So recently I was cruising through some TEDx talks and came across Robert Eckstein's presentation on "Engaging Men as Allies in Preventing Violence Against Women".
Eckstein currently works at the University of New Hampshire. His responsibilities include being part of a research group called "Prevention Innovations". The primary mission of this organization is to create and evaluate tools that help with the prevention of sexual violence, relationship violence and stalking.
I think what he has to say is food for thought..His ideas to engage more men in the prevention of Violence Against Women, are what he calls "small and simple; starting with day-to-day things".
Here are his thoughts on how we get more men to care about these important issues:
Make the issues more relatable. More personal. Bring the issues close to home.
Consider the women in your life. A partner, sisters, friends, daughters, mother, aunt, grandmother. With the stats that 1 out of 4 women will be abused by a relationship partner and 1 out of 6 women will experience an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime...How many women would be on your list of those you know?
The reality is that most everyone will have somebody in their life that either has or will be directly impacted by abuse or violence. So how DO we engage more men in the prevention of violence against women?
The following question can be answered by anyone but I hope the men reading this will take special notice:
Do you think the women you care about see you as an ally in the cause of prevention of violence against women?
When it comes up; how do you talk about rape?
When it comes up how do you talk about domestic violence?
When there's a case in our community or news feed; do you express your opinions about the case and if so how do you do it?
Do you know what victim blaming is?
Do you know what rape myths are?
Do you make an effort to avoid endorsing these ideas?
In the most general of terms; what type of language do you use when you talk about women?
Do you automatically become defensive in discussions related to violence against women?
Do you automatically become defensive when you hear discussions around male privilege? If so have you ever thought about how this comes across to women you care about?
Do people look at you and say, "This is someone I can share my story with, without feeling judged and blamed?...Who I can share my story with and feel confident that they will listen and provide support?
Considering these questions can be beneficial for anyone - but if men will consider their answers to these questions, perhaps they will become more conscious of the role they play in the lives of women and the prevention of violence against women.
If you've got 15 minutes to spare - the time will be well spent in watching the full TEDx talk here.
Take a look and see what you think about his suggestions and then share your thoughts in the comment section below. If you like what you see, click "Like" and don't forget to share this video and post with men in your lives to get the conversation started.
Check out this fantastic Infographic by The Learning Network to learn about the impact of homelessness on Canadian youth and our communities.
As always...please don't forget to "like" and "share"!
As you can see, the article and magazine cover below are from a year ago. It was posted on a site called "Women You Should Know".
I recently came across it and thought it was worth sharing - really worth sharing and applaud the graphic artist who changed the magazine cover to reflect what we've been working so hard for; Sending a clear message that girls everywhere are recognized and valued for the true and beautiful individuals that they are, while encouraging them to become all that they are meant to be. Not just a pretty face, worried about "dream hair" and "waking up pretty".
SEPTEMBER 13, 2016 WYSK
"A couple of weeks ago we ran a piece about an image that was posted on social media and went viral. It was a side-by-side shot of this Girls’ Life magazine cover (left, lead image) next to the cover of Boys’ Life magazine that served as a harsh reminder of the stereotyped messages that, even in the year 2016, are STILL marketing to girls. We weren’t the only ones ticked-off by the image. After seeing it posted on her Facebook feed, Katherine Young, a graphic designer, took matters into her own hands and decided to show Girls’ Life what their cover SHOULD look like.
“When I saw the post I was just in frickin’ shock,” Katherine said. “Can this be real? Is this photo fake? After Googling current issues of these two magazines I found them to be real. I was just appalled.”
Putting her graphic skills to work, in just a few minutes, Katherine swapped out the cover girl for Olivia Hallisey, the 2015 Google Science Fair Grand Prize winner, and photo-shopped in some new, inspired and empowering headlines. The result? A magazine cover that offers girls better alternatives to tips on how to “Wake up Pretty.”
Katherine was motivated to change the cover so that others will be more aware of the messages they are sending to girls. “We can do better. I hope this cover inspires us all to do better every day and be more conscious of the imagery our children are bombarded with,” she said in an email to WYSK. “I hope this sparks conversation with both girls and boys. They all need to know that girls are more than a pretty face.”
Girls’ Life… are you listening?"
Women You Should Know - September 2016
This article is reprinted from a recent TED talk/Facebook Live session in June, 2017. Let us know what you think in the comments below...and don't forget to share!
Michael Kimmel (TED Talk: Why gender equality is good for everyone) is a sociology professor at Stony Brook University in New York and the founder of its Center for the Study of Men and Masculinities. Yes, you read that right — masculinities, plural. He believes there is no one masculinity in society today but a number of masculinities, shaped by the intersection of gender and influences like race, class and sexuality. Age is also an important factor, and in June, Kimmel, 66, and his 18-year-old son, Zachary, discussed how their respective generations — Baby Boomer and Gen Z — understand and experience masculinity. (Editor’s note: the following conversation was edited for clarity and length.)
Michael Kimmel: Let me start by asking you, What do you think are the differences between being a man today as you experience it and what you perceive in previous generations?
Zachary Kimmel: While my experience might not represent the totality of all men’s experiences, one noticeable and important change to me is the balance of work and family. I think there’s an expectation for men of my generation that both work and family will be shared between the spouses/partners, and I can imagine that wasn’t always the case for you.
Michael: That was a real issue for my generation. I remember my father telling me that when he was in college, he and his friends would ask each other, “Are you going to let your wife work?” And they said, “No, that’s my responsibility. I take care of supporting the family. She should stay home with the kids.”
Zachary: Another important shift that’s happened between our generations is the acceptability of cross-gender friendships. For men now, it’s far more acceptable to have females as friends, not only as romantic partners.
Michael: Yes. I go to a lot of campuses to speak, and when I started doing it 25 years ago, I’d walk into a class and ask, “How many of you have a good friend of the opposite sex?” Like ten percent of the class raised their hands. Now I could walk into any college classroom and ask, “Is there anybody here who doesn’t have a good friend of the opposite sex?” I’d never see a hand.
Zachary: Absolutely.
Once upon a time, the whole world was a locker room — now there’s women everywhere. I hear men my age say, “Where can a guy go where he can just relax and not get policed all the time?”
Michael: You’ve painted a pretty happy picture of your generation. At the same time, every day there seems to be a steady parade of young men behaving badly. For example, there was the Facebook page that the Marines had which shared nude photos of female service members and condoned violence against women, and the private Facebook group in which recently admitted students to Harvard said all kinds of bad things. Tell me a little bit about that side.
Zachary: Obviously, we haven’t fully overcome the tendency for men, particularly in all-male groups, to degrade women and engage in activities like hazing or sexual assault. I think there might be a correlation between women becoming more integrated into the workforce and public sphere and some men retreating into insular, all-male groups — the fraternity, sports team and the online Facebook chat — to keep up that traditional understanding of masculinity.
Michael: Once upon a time, the whole world was a locker room — the corporate boardroom was a locker room, the faculty meeting was a locker room, and of course, the locker room was a locker room. Now there’s women everywhere. I’d imagine this has affected my generation more than yours because it’s new to us, we weren’t prepared. We expected locker rooms everywhere. I hear men my age say things like, “Where can a guy go where he can just relax, say stupid stuff, and not get policed all the time?” Do you hear that from guys your age?
Zachary: Absolutely. The generational difference may be in the location of those conversations. Your generation invested in the man cave or the weekend golfing trip; we went online. We make Facebook groups, group chats, use all forms of social media to talk between men. Last year, sports teams from elite institutions — Harvard men’s soccer, Princeton men’s swimming and diving, Columbia wrestling — all got in trouble with their universities for their all-male team chats, group messages and texts. We’ve retreated to our online spaces.
Michael: My generation grew up with the expectation that our world would be pretty much like Don Draper’s in Mad Men. My dad’s world looked like that, and I expected my world to look like that. I feel like my generation has this sense of loss because we expected something we didn’t get. You didn’t expect it, so you aren’t angry. That thwarted sense of entitlement fuels a lot of the angry men I’ve written about. But I want to switch topics. When we’ve talked before, you’ve used the word “toxic” to describe masculinity.
Zachary: Yes.
This traditional, inherited idea of masculinity is a recipe for loneliness, emptiness, a lack of connection and a suppression of compassion and empathy.
Michael: What about masculinity would you say is toxic or poisonous?
Zachary: Masculinity in its rigid, norm-driven form can harm men. It can cause physical harm when it’s pressuring men to binge-drink or submit to hazing rituals to get into a group. It can also lead to an emotional shut-down in which men are discouraged from having women as friends or pursuing activities because they’re worried about social consequences.
Michael: What you’re saying is this traditional, inherited idea of masculinity is a recipe for loneliness, emptiness, a lack of connection and a suppression of compassion, empathy, etc. I take your point. But what I see in you and in many of your guy friends and in my generation are men facing tension in their notions of masculinity. Let me ask you, What does it mean to you to be a good man?
Zachary: Responsible, honorable, does the right thing, protector, provider, honest — all those words come to mind.
Michael: OK. Now tell me if those same ideas come up when I say, “Man up, dude! Be a real man.”
Zachary: I get all kinds of other ideas — show no weakness, show no pain, real men don’t cry, they get rich, they get laid, show no emotions.
Michael: That’s pretty different.
Zachary: Vastly different.
Michael: Where do you learn those ideas?
Zachary: Other men, particularly older men, coaches or the captains on the sports teams when I played sports, media, music — a variety of sources.
If I’m in a group of guys and someone makes a sexist comment, instead of saying “Hey, don’t say that word,” I say, “Hey, man, please don’t say that around me.”
Michael: I’ve been asking this question a lot, and most guys say pretty much what you said. They list, in this order, my dad, my coach, my guy friends, my older brother. I don’t want to say it’s about toxic masculinity vs. healthy masculinity. I think every one of us knows what it means to be a good man and we want to live up to those ideals. Yet sometimes in the name of proving we’re real men, we’re asked to betray our values. Don’t you think there were guys on the Harvard soccer team who were not down with what was going on?
Zachary: Absolutely.
Michael: But they can’t say it because there’s a tremendous amount of gender policing that goes on among guys. How do you deal when you’re in a group and some guy makes a sexist comment?
Zachary: When I was younger and still learning how to engage in this stuff, I’d react in a didactic, holier-than-thou, “Don’t say that, that is wrong” approach.
Michael: You’d police them back.
Zachary: I’d also get emotionally riled up and angry. Since I’ve had struggles and failures, I’ve taken on new strategies. Instead of saying “Hey, don’t say that word,” I say, “Hey, man, please don’t say that around me.” It’s a little declaration that this is not cool with me. I think you bring up an interesting point about that tension between what I feel like I should be doing versus what I feel like I need to do to fit in, and how lonely that can feel. If you’re in a situation and something is being done or said that doesn’t fly with you and you say something, you almost hope or assume there will be somebody else in the group who agrees. You hope he has the courage and strength to stand with you. Once you have another person, it’s far easier.
Michael: So how do you raise a boy to navigate this world between good and real? What advice would you give to parents on raising a good man?
Zachary: The first thing I’d say is beware of the birthday party effect. That’s the name that some psychologists have given to the phenomenon in which as kids get older, particularly when they hit puberty, parents and kids subconsciously begin to narrow the people invited to their children’s birthday party, by race and by gender.
Michael: Up until fourth grade, there’s a rule you have to invite the entire class.
Because of the love and respect between you and Mom, and your egalitarian relationship, we never needed a conversation about what men are expected to do or what women are expected to do.
Zachary: Encourage boys to cultivate cross-gender friendships — these friendships are so valuable. The second thing I’d say is, Don’t push your child into an activity that is stereotypically associated with their gender. If your son doesn’t want to play football, allow them the space and give them the confidence and trust to find their own path. If it’s ballet or tap dancing, I hope you’re as equally loving and involved a parent as if they were playing quarterback. The third thing I’d say has to do with role modeling. In our family, we never spoke about gender roles when I was younger because I grew up in a house where it was likely that I’d come home from school and see you doing laundry or the dishes.
Michael: And I’m the family cook.
Zachary: Because of the depth of love and respect between you and Mom, and the egalitarian nature of your relationship, we never needed to have a conversation about what men are expected to do or what women are expected to do. It’s just what I saw — my father is involved with me, he loves me, my mom has a career, she cares about work but she’s involved with me as well.
Michael: So what would you say to men who are resistant to the idea that masculinity should change? How would you get them on board?
Zachary: That’s the big question behind your work, and to a lesser extent, it’s my work as well. Your thesis is that a more holistic understanding of masculinity and a rejection of rigid, toxic masculinity — to use that term — is good for men. It helps in all facets of our lives and allows men to live the lives they really want to live.
Michael: I couldn’t agree more. Look, men should support gender equality because it’s the right thing to do. I don’t think it’s minimizing the moral imperative to say, “It’s also in your interest.” But I don’t think it’s easy to tell men we need to change masculinity, because men will experience this as if you’re saying, “Give up what has worked for you.”
Zachary: Power, privilege, everything.
Michael: It’s asking too much. Instead, you have to say, “You already are doing it; you just aren’t recognizing it.” Every single man is genetically connected to a woman. They know what it feels like to love a woman and want them to thrive. They’re fathers, sons, brothers, partners, lovers, friends, husbands. We need support from other men to act. When a guy says “I’m going to take parental leave,” his colleagues shouldn’t say, “I guess you’re not committed to your career, are you?” but “Good for you, man. You have your priorities straight.”
Those brotherhoods in which you defend wrong behavior — those are inauthentic. They ask you to put your own self aside. I don’t think that’s being a good brother at all.
Zachary: So much of it is about men holding our fellow men accountable. There was a football team in which a few players were accused of rape and the university said, “You can’t play in your bowl game.” Rather than support the woman or condemn their teammates, the rest of the team said, “We’re going to support the guys accused of rape.” Too often, we get caught up in notions of brotherhood or solidarity that are harmful to each other and harmful to ourselves.
Michael: I want to push back a bit, because there are positive things about brotherhood.
Zachary: I agree.
Michael: Those brotherhoods in which you’re defending the wrong behavior — those are inauthentic. They ask you to put your own self aside in order to be a brother. I don’t think that’s being a good brother at all.
Zachary: If you really are a brother, you have to say, “Hey man, this is not good for you. I wouldn’t do this.” You have to protect him.
Michael: That’s right. A real brother says, “Dude, I love you, you are my brother. I’m not going to let you do this.” The close guy friends you have, the fact that they don’t compromise, they don’t ask you to compromise your friendships with girls, that’s great. This is a place where we older men can learn. Too often on college campuses at homecoming, I hear old grads say to the young guys, “You’re not hazing them hard enough! We made them do all this horrible stuff. You guys are wusses.” And the guys are like, “We’ve got to ramp it up here.” The dads should just let them find their own way.
Zachary: I agree.
Michael: I think this is a good place for us to end. Zack, any last words?
Zachary: I wanted to say again that so many of the problems we see with men today can be solved by men holding their fellow men more accountable. Be the kind of brother who looks out for your fellow man.
Michael: I want to add one piece to that. It’s not only about holding each other accountable; it’s about being willing to be held accountable ourselves. I’ve grown most from the challenges I’ve gotten from other men and from feminist women friends who said, “We need to talk about this.”
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Michael Kimmel is the SUNY Distinguished Professor of Sociology and Gender Studies at Stony Brook University. He is the author of many books, including "Manhood in America", "Angry White Men", "The Politics of Manhood", "The Gendered Society", and the best seller "Guyland: The Perilous World Where Boys Become Men". He founded the Center for the Study of Men and Masculinities at Stony Brook in 2013.
Zachary Kimmel has worked to engage young men for gender equality at Human Rights Watch and UN Women, where he co-authored a youth-friendly version of CEDA (onvention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Wome). As a high school senior, he started the nation's first high school chapter of Athlete Ally, a group that engages straight athletes to support LGBT rights. He will attend Columbia University in the fall.
Here it is the middle of August and only 131 days until Christmas. (Sorry for that.)
Last year at the beginning of the summer I did some reviews and gave suggestions on flicks that were focused on violence against women. So I thought that I'd make it an annual thing and keep it going.
I apologize that it's a little later this year but there's still summer left, so here you go...
For the last while I have been working on the principle of being brave, so this year's films look through the lens of women's strength and courage.
You may be familiar with some of these films but I thought they're worth a replay. So put on some comfy caj, invite your gal pals over, (it would be great to let the men in your life watch too), get your favourite snacks and be prepared to be inspired.
Hmmmm....I think I feel like watching a movie now...
#1 THE ZOOKEEPER'S WIFE (Netflix)
A great, non-fiction story of keepers of the Warsaw Zoo, Antonina and Jan Zabinski, who smuggled hundreds of Jewish people out of the Warsaw Ghetto during the German invasion of Poland. After her husband is taken by the Nazis, Antonina is left to the extremely risky operation on her own.
#2 THE HELP (iTunes)
Set in civil rights Mississippi, The Help is a film about shared bravery and courage. A young, southern society girl returns from college, determined to make her mark as a writer. The focus of her first story?...Black maids who raise the children of prominent white families in her hometown.
A story that has it all...humanity, heartbreak and humour.
#3 STILL ALICE (Netflix)
An award-winning film about a renowned, linguistics professor, wife and mother of three grown children who comes face to face with a devastating diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer's Disease. The film gives a glimpse into the life of this strong and courageous woman and her family, as they battle heartbreak and fear through her struggles to hang onto a sense of self for as long as possible.
#4 NORTH COUNTRY (iTunes)
Inspired by a true story, this film captures the courage and fearlessness of Josey Aimes, a single, divorced mom who needs a "man's pay" to take care of her family. She goes to work at a local iron mine, where she and a handful of other female miners endure sexual harassment from male co-workers. She filed and won the USA's first-ever, class action lawsuit for sexual harassment.
#5 MOANA (Netflix)
Not just another love struck Disney princess, Moana is a young, courageous girl who takes on a journey to rescue her home, family and village. The adventure includes overcoming many obstacles and helps her to become a "master way finder". ("Way finding is not just sails and knots...it's seeing where you are going in your mind and knowing where you are by where you've been.")
#6 HIDDEN FIGURES (iTunes)
This film centres on three African-American women whose brilliant mathematical and scientific minds are integral to the success of John Glen's orbit of the earth and beating the Soviet Union into space. At a time when Virginia's segregation laws are still very much adhered to...the women consistently out-think their higher-ranked (usually white, male) colleagues at NASA, "whether by learning a new programming language, solving problems in wind-tunnel experiments, or calculating narrow launch windows for space missions. Each is uniquely aware of the broader stakes of her success—for other women, for black people, for black women, and for America at large—and this knowledge is as much an inspiration as it is a heavy weight." The Atlantic
#7 Pink (Netflix)
A drama about privilege, power, courage and fighting back because when a woman says "no" she means "no". No matter what culture, country or language. She has the right to govern her own body and sexuality.
Do YOU have any suggestions for best movies about women, courage and bravery? Let me know how you liked these.
For the first time in Canadian history, there are as many seniors in Canada as there are young people.
The fact that Canadians are not only getting older but are also living longer, should trigger conversations and action, focused on the challenges this phenomenon is causing. We need discussions about what to do to prepare for the future.
Conversations need to include how best to serve the growing needs of an aging population, the types of services that will be needed, the support families will require and support and training that will be necessary for community supports to function properly.
Unfortunately, with this growth in the senior population we also see an increase in elder abuse - something that no one wants to think about or consider. But an issue that we need to face because it's REAL.
Elder abuse comes in many forms, with the most common being financial, emotional and physical. Often more than one type of abuse occurs at the same time.
Elder abuse frequently takes place where the senior lives. It is estimated that 1 in 10 older adults experience some form of abuse in their life. Common signs of abuse to look for may include; confusion, depression, anxiety, unexplained injuries, changes in hygiene and displaying fear around certain people.
Elder abuse can happen to any older adult regardless of financial status, race, religion or sexual orientation.
With Durham residents living longer, older baby boomers are finding themselves having to care for elderly parents or taking on the difficult task of finding a long-term care facility. This added responsibility often adds extra strain and stress onto already highly stressful family and work situations. This doesn't excuse the abuse - it just means that there may be more frequent cases.
The situation is not going to go away, it is only going to grow...faster than most of us realize. We need to start conversations about how to manage and create a better future for the care of our seniors - which by the way, will one day be us.
Do you think the issue of an increased aging population affects you and your family? How will you start the conversation?
Finally, the sunshine is appearing and with it a hope for warmer weather and the summer we've all been craving. Young people (and teachers) everywhere are doing the countdown to the end of school when they'll finally be able to do their version of the "Happy" dance.
As the end of the school year approaches it is the perfect time to talk to the kids in your life about the importance of keeping safe with the Buddy System. It's a system that's never outdated and is always effective no matter how old they are. As a matter of fact it may be even more crucial for those who are teens.
A recent study from the Canadian Centre for The Protection of Children titled "Abducted Then Murdered Children; A Canadian Study: (Preliminary Results), closely examined 147 cases between 1970 and 2010 highlighted the following facts about the importance of the Buddy System:
How Can You Help?
Something as simple and easy as the Buddy System could mean a big difference for those you care about it. Take the few minutes to talk about it with them to ensure they have a safe and happy summer.
Have you ever had an experience where the Buddy System protected you or someone you know?
There are some things that are sure to shock you. Like putting your finger in an electrical socket. Or the incredibly high price of cauliflower at your local grocery store. Or a scary movie scene. You know something awful is going to happen by the sinister feeling of suspense created by the crescendoing music, and yet you still jump.
Something else that is really shocking: the stats on Sexual Assault in Canada.
A Numerical Representation of the Truth
The above noted statistics have been taken from various studies across Canada. While the numbers can never been 100% accurate, a few key generalizations can made:
**Note: These Stats have been taken from: www.sexualassault.ca
Please take the time to share this post and let everyone know that May is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. And tell us if you are shocked at the stats on Sexual Assault in Canada.
You can get more information about how to help, or how to get help at:
The Violence Prevention Coordinating Council of Durham (VPCC) is dedicating this month to raising awareness of issues related to sexual violence and promoting ways to prevent and end sexual assault.
We want to have conversations about challenging rape culture, victim blaming, sexual violence on and off campus, stats and myths, and what you can do to help.
Begin the month with us by going to http://www.vpccdurham.org/sexual-assault for more information. Leave your comments below if you want to see change when it comes to sexual violence or if you are a survivor who wants to speak out, ask questions or if you are looking for help.
I came across this video that I shared a few years ago. It was so good that I wanted to share it again. Enjoy!
WORDS FOR CHANGE BY DREAMWORKS
#AWESOME #BEAUTIFUL #STRONG #FEARLESS #EMPOWERED #BEAUTIFUL #EXTRAORDINARY #BEFIERCE #LIMITLESS #NEEDWESAYMORE #NOBUTWEWILL #BECAUSEWECAN
By Mary Widdicks - Original Post April 14, 2016, Washington Post/ On Parenting
There is a lot of focus right now on the language we use when talking to and about our daughters. My social media news feed is filled with articles warning me of the subtle influence my words have on my daughter’s well-being. I shouldn’t call her “princess” because she might end up spoiled and entitled. I shouldn’t tell her she’s pretty because she might grow up thinking her looks define her worth. I shouldn’t buy her dolls because this implicitly discourages her from focusing on her career and thus condemns her to a domestic life, like her mother.
While I appreciate the impact that a patriarchal culture has on the social expectations we instill, conscious or not, in our daughters, this represents only half the equation. The vernacular surrounding young boys is equally guilty of propagating the aggressive and unpleasant male behaviors often complained about within these same articles. If the language with which we surround our daughters shapes their social identity, than the same is true for that with which we surround our sons.
As a mother of two boys, I have heard the phrase “boys will be boys” approximately 4,000 times. At first I shrugged it off as an innocuous cliche that other parents of sons used to bond with each other, the kind of knee-jerk reaction people have when they see a little girl and say “Isn’t she cute?” It wasn’t until my own son started acting out aggressively that I realized how dismissive and dangerous a phrase it really was.
My son has always been big for his age, and would often stand a full head taller than the other children in his various activities. He was built like a linebacker, but had always been a gentle giant. Until out of nowhere, my sweet boy started pushing other children at the playground, hip-checking his classmates to get to the front of the line, and lashing out violently at the slightest provocation. I couldn’t understand what had changed.
Was it his reaction to his new baby brother?
An unfortunate phase he was going through?
Rabies?
I had no idea, which also meant I had no idea how to fix the problem.
Boys will be boys.
These mollifying words would make things simpler, wouldn’t they? It would no longer be my responsibility to change his behavior; it’s just his Y chromosome acting up. The temptation to place the blame on his gender and wash my hands of any guilt or culpability was overwhelming.
Boys will be boys.
And walk away.
But I didn’t. I refused to accept that my son would always have a violent streak simply because he was a boy. Why was I bothering to parent him if his behavior was predetermined at birth? No, there was another reason for his actions, and I was desperate to find it.
[It’s never too early to teach your child about consent and boundaries]
I watched him closely over the next few weeks and noticed that he only reacted aggressively to children who invaded his personal space: children who crowded him in line, reached across him to grab a toy, or artfully dodged him at the last minute. He flinched every time like they were tiny fireballs waiting to burn him. Then he’d push, but not out of malice. It wasn’t just boys being boys. He was panicking, but didn’t know how to find the words to tell anyone. He felt powerless and was resorting to his physical dominance to regain balance.
It broke my heart to think that I was so close to dismissing his pain and confusion as his male weakness and moving on, leaving him to fend for himself.
I taught him about personal space and how he had the right to ask other children to respect his. I taught him to use his words forcefully if he felt threatened, giving him back some of his control. Finally, I explained that any sign of pushing or “using mean touches” with the other children would result in immediate removal from the activity and a time-out at home. My boy would not end up a bully.
Within a couple weeks, the incidents with other children diminished. He still flinched when children ran up to him too quickly, but I saw him slowly starting to use words like “that’s too close” and “excuse me” when he was feeling anxious. I even heard a very loud “NOOOOO” when a little girl tried to push past him in line. He wasn’t exactly the most polite child in the gym, but at least he wasn’t pushing.
I taught him to believe that his words were just as strong as his body, and not to rely on his brute force to solve his problems.
Boys will be boys.
The explanation that had seemed so harmless would have completely missed the root of his aggression, and the fact that it had nothing to do with his being a boy. He was frightened and unhappy. He felt powerless, and my attempt to defend and excuse him based on his gender would have left him stranded that way.
My first reaction will always be to protect my children, but sometimes the best way to protect them from future harm is to force them to face their current fears. Of course boys will continue to be boys. All children will fight and occasionally act out aggressively from time to time, and mine is no different. However, accepting these developmental speed bumps is not the same as tolerating them. We do not have allow our sons to behave like little monsters instead of little gentlemen.
As parents, it is not our job to placate our children or absolve their behavior. Our kids aren’t perfect. They can do wrong, and they will, whether they’re boys or girls. Our responsibility is to teach them how to make the world a better place, starting with themselves.
Mary Widdicks is mom to two boys and a baby girl and freelance writer. She blogs at OutmannedMommy.com. You can find her on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
