Masculinity

Hi everyone! Let's meet to talk about "Masculinity". Please keep an open mind and respect opinions of different people as this can be a sensitive topic. However, I believe we can explore this topic as a group of men and women, learn new things together, and leave this evening enriched by a diversity of new ideas.

Here are a few questions we might talk about:

• What is masculinity for you?
• How has masculinity changed in the last few decades?
• (for men) What do you find difficult today in how to live your masculinity?
• (for women) What do you expect from men?
• How do we create different visions of masculinity that make room for all kinds of men?
• Should we abandon the idea of masculinity altogether?
• What kind of ideals of masculinity will bring us closer to gender justice in the 21st century?

Please remember the ground rules of this group:

1. Refrain from interrupting until a group member has finished speaking, or having side-conversations during this time
2. Feel free to comment on the thoughts of others after they're finished (it's a discussion, after all, and it should feel organic), but try to refrain from diminishing their viewpoint, or trying to shift their opinions "debate-style"
3. Try to relax! You will hear some unfamiliar opinions and experiences- that's okay! Allow it to be expansive and thought-provoking, with an understanding that our differences can sometimes feel uncomfortable- that's just human.
4. Also let's remove the awkward from "awkward silences" because sometimes we just need a little bit of time to think before answering an unusual question.

We don't want to give short, factual answers, but also explain the "why" behind our answers. Participants are also encouraged to add their own questions freely. We encourage everyone to bring their unashamed and radical honesty- you never know what new thoughts you may inspire in others by being truly vulnerable and authentic.
New, and at first strange questions can lead to inspirational new ideas, radical honesty, and a real connection. Come ready to learn more about others, about yourself, and hopefully, reconnect to some meaningful aspects of being human through a new (to us, but really old) understanding of relationship to community.
Notes:

• If you can't come please sign off, so we know for how many people we should reserve a table

What to bring:

• Curiosity
• Honesty
• Respect
• Empathy
• An open mind
• An awareness of your boundaries

What not to bring:

• Prejudice
• Judgement