EPISODE 11: MALE FEMINISTS, MANNING THE MAN-TLE

In this episode, we have a lighter take on the topic of male feminists. Inspired by Barack Obama’s letter about a man’s responsibility to be an equal partner & feminist, we explore the increasing popularity and emergence of male celebrities taking up the male feminist mantle (such as Aziz Ansari, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Terry Crews, etc.), and how being a male feminist is and should be more than just being supportive of gender equality. We dig deeper into the nuances of what exactly does it mean to be a male feminist, looking at its various responsibilities and comparing it to other alternative titles or labels such as male allies or being pro-feminist. These labels are particularly useful for those who are just not yet ready to call themselves full-fledged male feminists — though they do come with their own pitfalls. We provide some helpful tips and advice on how men can be better feminists and/or allies. Lastly, we end with a beautifully penned essay by our latest male-feminist-love, Orange is the New Black actor Matt McGorry, on how becoming a feminist ‘felt like falling in love.’

Thanks for listening!

Horizontal Logo of Dialogika
For those interested in learning more about the topic, we’ve provided links to resources as well as other recommended readings.
President Obama Speaks at the White House Summit on the United State of Women — Barack Obama’s speech about being a feminist
This is What a Feminist Looks Like — Barack Obama’s letter, published on Glamour
How Becoming a Feminist Felt Like Falling In Love — Matt McGorry’s beautiful essay about taking up the male feminist mantle
RE: Feminism, by JGL — Joseph Gordon-Levitt on why he’s a feminist
Emma Watson at the UN — Emma Watson’s inspirational speech about gender equality
#HeForShe — UN Women’s campaign for gender equality by inspiring men to become male feminists and allies
I’m a Total Feminist — Terry Crews’ moving interview with Larry King about being a feminist
Ansari’s Feminism, via Jay & Bey  — Aziz Ansari’s clever description of feminism and why he’s a feminist
On feminism, fatherhood, and Ryan Gosling memes  — Justin Trudeau’s open & honest interview with Vox’s Liz Plank about being a feminist
8 Male Celebrities Who Were Amazing Feminist Allies In 2015  — courtesy of Bustle, some of our favorite ‘mallies’
5 Reasons Intersectionality Matters, Because Feminism Cannot Be Inclusive Without It  — courtesy of Bustle
 
 
 
MUSIC CREDITS:
SOUL HIGH by RYAN LITTLE
MONTMARTRE by JAHZAAR
NIGHT OWL by BROKE FOR FREE