Triggered by toxic masculinity? You’ll hate my feminist agenda
Truth time: I always wanted a daughter.
I wouldn’t trade my two boys for daughters, of course. But not having a girl was something that I had to grieve.
Being the RaDiCaL FeMiNiSt that I am, I knew I had a lot to offer a daughter. But it didn’t take me long to realise that David and I had an important job to do with these boys, too.
These precious babies would one day be tall, white men. And it was our job to make sure they didn’t grow up to be entitled assholes.
Toxic masculinity is a phrase that is VERY TRIGGERING to some men.
But looky here:
Toxic masculinity is NOT an understanding that all masculine traits are toxic. Far from it.
It’s the realisation that our culture pressures men and boys to behave in very specific ways.
That they need to be tough and in control and confident and decisive at all times.
💔 That their normal emotions are wrong.
💔 That colours aren’t for them.
💔 That if they don’t fit the mould, they’re less valuable.
It’s these limiting beliefs that lead to toxic masculinity. (…don’t get me started on how toxic masculinity is rooted firmly in misogyny and racism — that’s for another post).
We’re raising our boys to understand and recognise their emotions.
To feel their feelings, do and wear things they like, and feel comfortable in their own skin. To take responsibility for their actions, to recognise their privilege, and to be respectful.
Yes, there is a living, breathing feminist agenda in our home. And it’s one of the best things about our family.
