In a world striving for gender equality, men play an important role as allies to women. Men's involvement in feminist movements not only amplifies the call for change but also challenges the societal norms that perpetuate inequality. Here's a starter guide on how men can support women, become feminists, and promote respect, equality, and empowerment.
1. Acknowledge Your Privilege
The first step towards being an effective ally is acknowledging the privileges that come with being male in a patriarchal society, including feeling safer in public, advancing faster in careers, and having more respected opinions and authority. This doesn't mean feeling guilty for your gender, but rather understanding how societal structures benefit men over women. Recognition of this privilege is crucial in empathizing with the challenges women face and actively working to dismantle systemic sexism and barriers.
2. Listen to the Experiences of Women
Genuine allyship begins with listening. Men should make a conscious effort to hear and understand the experiences of women without attempting to interrupt, overshadow, or dispute their stories. This involves giving women space to share their truths and respecting their perspectives, even when they differ from your own experiences. Ask your loved ones questions about their experiences as women, and respond with curiosity and a desire to learn rather than with your own perspective.
3. Learn about the Women’s Rights Movement (and Other History)
Educating yourself on the history of women's rights and the ongoing struggles for equality is instrumental in becoming a voice for the future. Understanding the historical context of feminism and the sacrifices it took to get here can provide a deeper appreciation of the movement's significance and the significance of the issues that women face today. Men who educate themselves on women’s history can more effectively and accurately articulate pro-feminist viewpoints and support the women in their lives.
4. Don’t Spread Messages of Hate or Violence
To be a true ally to women, men must oppose any messages of hate or violence against women. This includes challenging sexist jokes, derogatory comments, and any form of media (television, music, etc.) that degrades women. By refusing to endorse or participate in these narratives - in both public and private settings - men can contribute to a culture that respects and values women.
5. Be an Advocate, Not a Bystander
Allyship involves taking action. When witnessing sexism or gender discrimination, don't remain silent. Speak up against injustices - no matter how big or how small - and use your voice to support and defend women's rights. Being an advocate means actively participating in the fight for equality, not just in words but in deeds.
6. Amplify Women’s Talent and Achievements
One practical way men can support women is by amplifying their talents and achievements. Whether in the workplace, on social media, or in personal conversations, highlighting the contributions of women helps to counteract the societal tendency to overlook or undervalue women's accomplishments.
7. Support Women’s Sports
Going along with amplifying their talents, support women’s sports! Despite equal levels of difficulty and talent, women’s sports often receive less attention and funding compared to men's. Men can challenge this disparity by attending women's sports events, following women's leagues, and advocating for equal representation and investment in all sports. Athletic competition has been one of the largest battlegrounds for gender equality, and men - including Steph Curry and Patrick Mahomes - play a part in making a fair playing field.
8. Show Outward Signs of Allyship
Wearing clothes with feminist symbols/quotes, sharing supportive messages on social media, or reading/displaying literature on gender equality are ways to visibly show your support for feminism. These actions can spark conversations and encourage others to reflect on their own beliefs, challenge oppressive behavior, and normalize feminist views.
9. Join Feminist Organizations or Movements
Engaging with feminist organizations or movements offers opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to the cause. Participation in these groups can provide a platform for advocacy, education, and community building, amplifying the impact of the feminist movement and deepening your appreciation for it.
10. Don’t Spread Toxic Masculinity
Challenge the norms of toxic masculinity, which perpetuate harmful stereotypes about what it means to be "manly” and, in turn, “womanly.” Making men feel lesser for displaying stereotypically feminine emotions or behavior perpetuates the shame of that behavior in women as well. Internalized misogyny is one of the reasons that men attack each other for wearing make up, painting their nails, sharing their emotions, etc. Embrace and promote a healthier, more inclusive vision of masculinity that allows for vulnerability, empathy, and equality.
11. Use Your Privilege
Finally, use your male privilege to advocate for women and feminists. This could mean leveraging your position to push for public policy changes, mentoring women at work, or supporting female-led initiatives. The goal is to create spaces where women's voices are heard and valued equally.
Conclusion
Becoming an ally to women and feminists is a continuous process of learning, listening, and taking action. It requires self-reflection, a commitment to change, and the courage to challenge ingrained inequalities. By embracing these principles, men can contribute significantly to the advancement of gender equality, creating a more just and equitable society for all.