THE K NO W

TOXIC MASCULINITY & MENTAL HEALTH

THE LOOMING DANGER OF SOCIAL MEDIA

REIMAGINING MASCULINITY

TOXIC MASCULINITY IN THE GAY COMMUNITY

Typically this editorial note is where I introduce our publication’s theme and describe the process The kNOw’s reporters took to get to it. But, as usual, the reporters can say it better than I ever could. Below, Enrique Little explains what toxic masculinity is and why it’s so important to the youth of Fresno and the rest of the world. Here I have just one note to add: Toxic masculinity is dangerous to all genders. While most of the articles contained in this issue focus on the typical gender binary, it’s important to note that it is just as impactful - if not more so- on those who exist outside of the gender binary. Their stories could fill an entire publication of their own, and I hope that the articles you read here inspire you to seek them out and continue to unlearn the harmful mindsets that toxic masculinity has taught us all.

Kody Stoebig Program Manager & Editor

What is Toxic Masculinity?

To some, the titular phrase will leave people scratching their heads. However, toxic masculinity is not too complicated. Toxic masculinity is the idea of men imposing the stereotypical role that comes with their gender, either amongst themselves or other genders. This is very ingrained in cultures all around the world. In American culture, many popular euphemisms such as: “real men say or do…” or “it takes balls to…” or calling more effeminate, less “macho” men “girls” or other more vulgar names serve as evidence to how deeply rooted toxic masculinity really is.

While toxic masculinity is an easy issue to comprehend, it is remarkably difficult to combat. Many men, myself included, often have trouble drawing the line between politeness and chauvinism. It’s hard to unlearn what society has taught us.

Men who aren’t taught to respect women often see them as objects or inferior, which is a huge part of toxic masculinity. However, sometimes men who are taught to respect women, myself included, are often taught that this respect is shown by helping and caring for women. The problem is that this can often become paternal. In 2018 we know that women are capable of the same things as men and I know that they don’t need men’s help. It is time to build a new way of being caring to each other. The stories in this issue help to give us answers on how to unlearn toxic masculinity and embrace a better way to be human. Answers that are most necessary in 2018.

Enrique Little Reporter