Do I think that women should be responsible for dismantling the system of toxic masculinity that permeates American society despite being the ones who are constantly marred by it? No.
Do I think that women are able just as capable, if not more so, of initiating positive change within the cycle of teaching toxic masculinity? Yes.
For those whose first introduction to toxic masculinity is this article, I'll explain exactly what I mean when I refer to it. Toxic masculinity is a cycle of teaching and enforcing strict gender roles upon children that encourage them to de-value "feminine" attributes. Toxic masculinity deters boys and men from having deep interpersonal connections with other men in fear of being "womanly" or "gay". Toxic masculinity teaches young men to be violent, angry, and to keep all other emotions to themselves. Toxic masculinity is dangerous, for men, for women, for everyone.
Although I realize toxic masculinity is rooted in a complex patriarchal system, I think that it can be, and must be, destroyed. And who better to begin the annihilation of this horrible ideology than women? Women have been fighting against patriarchy and toxic values since the beginning of time. Mothers are often encouraging and comforting. They often help their children pursue healthy relationships. Not only mothers but women all over the planet have dealt with the backlash of toxic masculinity. Women have dealt with degradation, violence, hatred, disrespect because men have been taught that this is okay.
I do not think it should be the responsibility of women to have to reteach their male friends, peers, their fathers, their brothers, their partners, or their families. But I think women have a unique capability of giving men encouragement that they probably seldom get anywhere else. I say, encourage men to be kind, to be emotional, to be friendly. Encourage men to have meaningful and emotional relationships with other men. Remind men that they don't need to be angry or violent to be heard. Teach men that they are not owed anything, they have no entitlement to what they desire. Remind men that they are important, strong, and capable.
I think men are hurting. I think they are lost, many are angry, and even more are sad. I am tired of seeing young men commit crimes or suicide. I want men to value their lives, I want men to value themselves. Again, I think women have a unique love that helps comfort people and nourish their souls. I think a lot of men could use a woman's help.
