November 25 is soon approaching, and this date carries a lot of significance—it is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Thinking about this has me wondering what it means to be a man in this day and age and how I fit into feminism in 2020.
We’ve been discussing what equality should look like for generations, and that conversation hasn’t changed in principle: women are human beings too. While there are plenty of issues to discuss in the feminism movement, I think it’s time for men to take an active role. As a father, husband, and son, it’s time I share my thoughts about why my son, Leonardo, and his generation should take a renewed look at feminism.
It’s All Relative
As a society, we are taking steps towards equality, and it makes me happy to see the progress we’ve made so far. It encourages me to push the envelope and raise a son who will keep this progress moving forward. This is why I’m hopeful for Leonardo to be a feminist. Because no matter who you’re looking at, she is someone’s daughter, mother, sister, and most importantly, she’s her own person.
With a mother and sister of his own, it’s natural for my son to bring them happiness and success. My goal is to teach him to extend that desire for success and equality to other women in his life as he grows.
How Masculinity and Feminism Can Move Forward
The conversation about what it means to be “masculine” and “feminine” has changed over recent years. We are continually challenging stereotypes for both men and women. For a long time, we valued traits and personality types that drove a wedge between us. Fortunately, we’ve seen a shift in this mindset—even though we have a long way to go as a society. Proudly, more than 70% of the employees, faculty, and students in our company are female or female-identifying. We’re happy to be shattering the stereotypes of old and showcase exactly what women are capable of achieving.
What can we do to ensure genuine equality can exist? So long as we continue to question the status quo, strive to push ourselves as loving human beings, and encourage caring and kindness, I have no doubts that we’ll find harmony.
If you’re looking to go above and beyond, consider studying my Maestro Mindset Manifesto – I would love to especially work with the sons amongst you who’re prepared to do the hard work that women expect of us!
