It’s finally 2019 and, after a monumental year for women, it’s time to focus on the men. Yes, you heard that right. So many women stepped up in 2018 and the issues that affect women have been reiterated over and over. It’s time for the next step of progress to be made, on a legislative level, on a cultural and societal level, on a personal level, and more. So for 2019, to achieve the gender equal change we seek, we must demand more from men.
Or better yet, we need to change how we look at men and the expectations surrounding men. We want men to see themselves beyond the antiquated standards of masculinity. Let men be caregivers, thoughtful fathers, inclusive and compassionate business leaders. Let them be examples of gender equality. On that note: we also hope men will hold each other accountable when it comes to toxic behavior and close-minded ideas. It can’t be just women calling men out and educating them. Men need to have honest conversations with one another about gender, sexism, and privilege.
We’re incredibly proud of the countless women who really made an impact last year. As we look forward, we hope men can be part of the change.