The conversation around gender equality has long been a vital part of our societal discourse.
While significant strides have been made in addressing the challenges faced by girls and
women, a growing movement is shedding light on the often overlooked struggles of boys and
young men.
The “Boys lives matter” campaign is a call to action, urging the public to recognize
and address the unique issues that affect the well-being and development of boys.
As we explore the topic, it’s essential to ask: “Can we truly say we care about the well-being of all children when we overlook the struggles of the boy child, who are quietly suffering in silence?”
Traditional Masculinity has long been a defining force in shaping the lives of boys and young men.
The traditional masculine ideal often emphasizes traits such as toughness, stoicism and dominance.
Boys are often socialised to embody these characteristics, suppressing emotions and vulnerability in the process. This can lead to Emotional suppression, Aggression and Violence and Limited Emotional Expression.
Men, particularly young boys and men often face stigma around mental health discussion even amongst their own peers. This can lead to reluctance to seek help, resulting in higher rates of suicide and substance abuse.
The World Health Organization reports that men are more likely to die by suicide than, women with young men being particularly vulnerable.
Boys embracing each other is a powerful symbol of friendship, affection and support. In a world where traditional masculinity often discourages emotional expression, this simple act can be a bold statement of connection and camaraderie.
This display of affection can have a profound impact on their emotional well-being and relationships, promoting a more open and supportive environment for boys to thrive but “Can boys truly embrace each other without fear of judgement or are they held back by society that often views male affection as a taboo?”.
This is why the #Boyslivesmatter campaign is here. The #Boyslivesmatter is more than just a campaign and movement. It is a call to action. By working
together to challenge traditional notions of masculinity and promote emotional expression, vulnerability and support, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all boys and men.
Article Written By Biney Yakubu | Kobbykyeinews
