WHAT CAN MEN DO? The question is vital because by now it is a known fact that the participation of men in the movement against violence against women is of fundamental importance. As sexual violence is overwhelmingly male violence meaning it is the result of men's behavior, it can only be solved by men in the long run. The young generation of boys badly needs male role models who have a nonviolent, sensitive, and emphatic approach to women and children. In case you as a boy or a man would like to take part in the work of orgainisations providing services for victims of rape and sexual assault you have the following possibilities. Consciousness raising If you want to do something about violence against women you will have to start by thinking over your own attitudes about women and your potential prejudices and violent behavior toward them. We have so much grown used to stereotypes and prejudices about women that we no longer recognize them. In the jokes about blond women and mother-in-laws, in the despising of female drivers the messages degrading and humiliating women as a group are often not apparent. If you happen to meet such stereotypes, make a point that you do not think remarks degrading women or portraying them as sexual objects are funny. Intervene if you witness violence against women and children - you do not have to tolerate violence in the name of 'politeness' or 'non interference'. If you intervene in a non violent way you may be the first person in the life of that woman or child to stand up for her and give her a message that violence is not acceptable. It may also be the case that you yourself use or in the past have used violence to "teach" or "punish" women and children. You must know that your violent behavior, be that in the form of hurtful words, hitting, or relentless sexual approach, is exclusively your responsibility and you under no circumstances have the right to intimidate and hurt an other person. For this reason you must at all cost give up using violence as a means to unwind your stress or forcing things to be your way. If you feel unable to give up, ask for professional help. Group initiative Men's involvement may range from individual non violence to social activism, where educated male volunteers offer training for all male groups about the causes and prevention of violence against women. In the United States and other Western countries there are several similar initiatives when men speak up against violence against women. One of them is the White Ribbon Movement. Further Information www.whiteribbon.ca (English and French) www.profeminist.org (English)