The Mask You Live In

The Mask You Live In follows boys and young men as they struggle to stay true to themselves while negotiating America’s narrow definition of masculinity. Pressured by the media, their peer group, and even the adults in their lives, our protagonists confront messages encouraging them to disconnect from their emotions, devalue authentic friendships, objectify and degrade women, and resolve conflicts through violence. These gender stereotypes interconnect with race, class, and circumstance, creating a maze of identity issues boys and young men must navigate to become “real” men. Experts in neuroscience, psychology, sociology, sports, education, and media also weigh in, offering empirical evidence of the “boy crisis” and tactics to combat it. The Mask You Live In ultimately illustrates how we, as a society, can raise a healthier generation of boys and young men.

Lee Clasper-Torch
Men’s Engagement Coordinator, RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence

Peter Converse
Newport Community Leader and Ten Men Member

Ben Ellcome
Newport Community Leader and Ten Men Member

Moderated by:
Jessica Walsh
Director of Prevention, Women’s Resource Center

Suggested donation: $5*

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