Support for Men

In our society, males are conditioned in many dehumanizing ways. For example, males are viewed as not having the same emotional capacity as females, and the expression of feelings is frowned upon. Men are expected to be self-sufficient and to have all the answers to every problem, which leaves them feeling isolated and alone with their struggles. 

The ways that men internalize the negative conditioning have daily effects, from holding in emotions and developing physical illnesses as a result, to finding it difficult to have close, healthy relationships with women (not only romantic relationships, but friendships and relationships with female family members). Additionally, men are pitted against each other in competition, for material success and as ‘breadwinners’ of their families. Men are also viewed as expendible human beings, trained to be prepared to sacrifice their lives, whether in military situations or in times of danger. 

This workshop will help men:
• To understand how negative conditioning affects your life and relationships
• To have a safe place to explore past hurts and current patterns based in old hurts
• To become better allies to women and to learn how to interrupt sexism
• To develop close, healthy relationships with women and men
• To release pent up feelings of grief, shame, fear, anger, and confusion
• To reclaim a sense of your own goodness and worth

This workshop will also address how intersectionality of oppression affects men, for example, how race and class identities intersect with men’s conditioning and experiences. The intersections of young people’s and young adults’ oppressions, as well as LGBTQ oppression, with the socialization and struggles of men will also be discussed.

Led by Laura Sullivan.

When: Sunday, July 14, 2-6pm

Where: MSPJC, 3573 Southern Ave. Memphis TN 38111 - wheelchair accessible.
Cost: Sliding scale $20-$45
*Limited to the first 10 people who register.

Registration online or by phone is required to attend.
Some scholarships may be available.
Donations for workshop scholarships gratefully accepted!

For more information or to register contact Gio López gio@midsouthpeace.org or call the Mid-South Peace and Justice Center at 725-4990.

***********************

About Laura Sullivan

A long-time grassroots organizer, Laura Sullivan currently works with the Memphis Bus Riders Union, h.o.p.e., and the Vance Avenue Collaborative. Laura has also been teaching and counselling for over twenty years, leading workshops, classes, and support groups for women, men, students, young adults, and people working to change the world. Recent workshops have addressed eliminating racism, healing for activists, empowering women, LGBTQ oppression and liberation, and developing our visions for a better world. Laura is also available for individual counselling sessions and for workshops tailored to the needs of your group or organization. laurasullivan44@gmail.com