Lecture examines how male youth are affected by sexism

Last week was Sexual and Gender Wellness Week on the University of Calgary campus. For the fifth year, students were offered the opportunity to participate in discussions, attend movies, stage performances and workshops, and to experience displays and even a carnival.

The goal was to give students a space to discuss issues of sex, sexuality, and the development of healthy relationships.

While Sex Week is now over, conversations about what it means to part of a healthy community are continuing.

Presentation addresses how male youth are affected by sexism

On Feb. 10, undergraduate students in the Werklund School of Education will learn more about the Calgary Sexual Health Centre’s WiseGuyz program. Tonya Callaghan, course co-ordinator, invites anyone interested in the event to sit in on the class as well.

The presentation is organized by postdoctoral scholar Mairi McDermott and sessional instructor Marlon Simmons for Callaghan’s Diversity in Learning course. It is for pre-service teachers and will address the ways in which youth are affected by sexism, with a particular focus on youth who identify as male.

The WiseGuyz program was developed by the Calgary Sexual Health Centre, when it became apparent that the majority of services they were offering were targeted to young women. There was a clear need to offer a program for young men that would touch on subjects such as health, relationships, violence prevention, bullying and homophobia.

Creating space for difficult conversations necessary for building healthy relationships

“Bullying, self-esteem, self-harm and suicide are all increasing amongst our youth,” says McDermott. “They need support and Calgary Sexual Health provides some of that support.

“As adults and leaders in the community — especially as teachers — we too need support and we need to know the different voices and communities who are working as allies for our students and youth who are struggling.”

Simmons agrees and says, “being aware of social support systems for youth and community is important. Creating spaces to have these often difficult conversations with educators, parents, guardians, friends, partners and loved ones is necessary for building healthy relationships.”

Event is open to interested individuals outside the faculty

Simmons adds that the presentation will be of importance to those interested in human rights and anti-oppressive education.

The presentation takes place Wednesday, Feb. 10 in ST 148 from 3 p.m. until 4:50 p.m.

An invitation is extended to everyone to learn more about this topic and the WizeGuyz program.