WATCH: Voice Male Talks - Debunking Masculinity Norms in Schools Webinar

On March 21st, Voice Male Talks’ Charlotte Kinloch hosted Laura Stocker, Christopher Pepper and our very own Jonathon Reed, to ask the question: how do we challenge harmful masculinity norms in the classroom and how do we equip educators with the tools to do so?

Despite progress toward gender equality, harmful gender norms continue to shape young people’s lives. For boys, these norms force them into a narrow, tough, emotionless mold that isolates them, harms their mental health, and increases rates of violence. Boys who don’t conform face ridicule, rejection, and punishment, further reinforcing the power dynamics that fuel gender-based violence.

With students spending hours each day in school, educators play a crucial role in challenging gender norms. They have the opportunity to foster critical thinking about masculinity stereotypes, creating environments where boys can flourish as their authentic selves, and celebrate the individuality of their peers across the gender spectrum. 

At this Voice Male Talks event, our three panelists dove into the tough, urgent questions, such as:
 

✅ How can educators engage boys who strongly embrace restrictive ideas about masculinity? 

✅ How do you navigate resistance when boys feel defensive or disengaged? 

✅ And how do we address misogyny in the classroom without alienating students who have internalized patriarchal beliefs? 


We invite you to watch the webinar for yourself. You’ll gain the skills to challenge harmful masculinity norms in the classroom, and empower boys to break free from stereotypes, embrace their authentic selves, and help break cycles of violence.

Who are the panelists?

  • Laura Stocker: International Development Consultant and Author of original article published in Voice Male Fall 2024: Debunking Gender Norms in Schools

  • Christopher Pepper: Award-winning health educator in the San Francisco Unified School District, writer of the Teen Health Today newsletter, and co-author of the forthcoming book Talk To Your Boys.

  • Jonathon Reed: Director of Programs at Next Gen Men, expert on supporting boys' well-being and challenging gender-based violence.  

  • Moderated by: Charlotte Kinloch, Community Lead at Next Gen Men. 


What is Voice Male Talks?

Voice Male Talks is a new event series designed to continue the important conversations sparked by Voice Male magazine, the longest running pro-feminist men’s magazine in North America. Published bi-annually by Next Gen Men, Voice Male is a beautiful chronicle dedicated to telling the stories of the diverse pro-feminist men’s movement.

Get the Fall 2024 issue of Voice Male, featuring the article “Debunking Gender Norms in Schools” by Laura Stocker, the inspiration for this event or become a member.

Teri Westerby