Tony Porter: A CALL TO MEN on undoing racism, sexism, and breaking out of the “man box”

Rebirth With J.R. Martinez

Tony Porter is an author, educator and activist working to advance social justice issues. As the co-founder and CEO of A CALL TO MEN, Tony is internationally recognized for his efforts to prevent violence against women while promoting a healthy, respectful manhood. Tony’s 2010 TED Talk has been named by GQ Magazine as one of the “Top 10 TED Talks Every Man Should See.” In this powerful episode, Tony shares how to undo racism, sexism, and male supremacy.

Key Takeaways

• Why is Tony so passionate about domestic violence and prevention work?
• You can’t undo racism without addressing sexism and male supremacy.
• The transformation we’re looking for happens through vulnerability, through sharing your story.
• Boys are taught early on to have a ‘lack of interest’ in girls.
• Why does it seem white America has a lack of interest in the struggles of black and brown people? The same applies to heterosexual folks and their lack of interest with gay and trans rights.
• More men are open to talking about healthy manhood, but shut down when it comes to women's issues.
• There is a minority of men who actually commit acts of violence towards women, but a majority of men will be quiet about it or choose to remain ignorant of it.
• The life expectancy of a black transgendered woman is about 33 years old.
• People in the LGBTQ communities are seeking acceptance. They’re trying to remove the stigmas and labels that are placed on them.
• We are so much more alike than we are different.
• All black Americans are grieving right now due to the tragedies that have happened in the U.S. they are connected even if they don’t personally know one another.
• As people march the streets in protest, we are experiencing a historical moment.
• How do you inspire young black men and women to keep going forward? How do you inspire allies to keep fighting?
• Change is coming! People are fighting for change!
• Tony lives in North Carolina and was traumatized by seeing how many confederate flags were flying around during the NASCAR races. However, now NASCAR doesn’t support this and they are standing up against this.
• If women could end domestic violence on their own, they would have already. They need male allies speaking up for change.
• It’s important to meet people where they’re at. You can’t expect them to be at a certain level without helping them through the basics first.
• It comes down to breaking unhealthy cycles, cycles you might not even be conscious of.
• Tony offers some words of wisdom for those that are struggling, angry and afraid for their black sons and daughters.

Continue On Your Journey

Acalltomen.org

Breaking Out of The Man Box by Tony Porter

A Call to Men - TED Talk

Tony on Twitter

JRmartinez.com

J.R. on Instagram

J.R. on Facebook

J.R. on Twitter

J.R. Youtube Channel

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