Nice one, you made it.
You’re already on your way to becoming an ally this International Women’s Day. Who knew that phallic censoring was the way to do it?
But the truth is, we need men like you. Otherwise we’re never moving the needle on gender equality. Did you know that right now only 5-10% of IWD events are attended by men? But with your help, we’d like to change that. Equality starts with equal attendance.
All you need to do is show up, lean in and listen.
Your one small act will make a big difference. A difference to the women in your life. A difference to the next generation. And a difference to Andrew Tate, taking away his fanbase one ‘normie’ at a time.
SHOW UP FOR GENDER EQUALITY THIS IWD
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SHOW UP FOR GENDER EQUALITY THIS IWD 〰️
Send a message.
Start a movement.
Message men and let them know that showing up is the most powerful message they can send.
Get a mate involved:
Get the guys together and share an Unsolicited Invite.
Download from the selection below and slide it right into their DMs.
Get your workplace
involved:
Is your workplace behind the 8 (March) ball? Here’s a template you can send to guarantee it’s not a cupcake filled disaster:
Being an ally this IWD. And beyond.
Although not knowing what to say or do is better than not going at all…we’ve gathered some info on how you can continue to support gender equality even beyond IWD.
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Lead with listening. As women discuss their (often sensitive) experiences, it’s important to avoid mansplaining or solution-finding. Even if it’s coming from a genuine place. Listening and acknowledging is the best way to validate their experiences, and for you to learn.
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It’s important we recognise how bias plays a role in gender equality. Take time to reflect on how gender has influenced the opportunities that you’ve had. Challenge your privilege and expose yourself to different perspectives.
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Because of these biases, women often go without recognition for their achievements. From receiving less pay to having their contributions overlooked, it’s important both women and men call it out as they see it. Not only does it highlight bias where others might not see it - but it’s also just plain fair!
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Although most men report doing everything they can to advance gender equality, most women don’t believe this is the case. To bring perceptions closer together, it’s important men speak up on policies that stand to disadvantage women. This could be issues regarding pay transparency, parental leave or the hierarchy of reporting sexual harassment.
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Speaking up is hard. But it shouldn’t be left to women. So when you hear a ‘joke’ with misogynistic undertones or alike, call it out and send a message that sexist language is not tolerated… or funny. A 'not in 1989 anymore mate’ usually does the trick.
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The reality is that women have an unequal share of household responsibilities. Washing. Cleaning. Childcare. The list goes on. Have a conversation with your partner and ensure that responsibilities are shared equally. Even if you believe it is, it probably isn’t.
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Women are significantly underrepresented in positions of power. Fact. But with your support, and over time we can change that. Whether it’s election time, or you hold a leadership position, it’s important female candidates are given your equal consideration.
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Educate yourself. Starting with the articles below.
Educating yourself on gender equality.
How Men can be Allies this International Women’s Day:
Caught your attention? Keen to know more about how you can support women on IWD? Look no further. Here’s some ways you can show up for women this International Women’s Day. And everyday after it.
The Role of Men on International Women’s Day and Everyday:
International Women’s Day is one out of 365 days in a year. But gender equality is something that affects women every day. And the issue isn’t only a female one - it’s a social and economic imperative. Learn how you can show up all year round.
Placeholder for Jas’ op-ed.
Placeholder for Jas’ op-ed.
It will have to live after the one from the Allies. So I’m aiming for the 22nd of February.
Frequently Asked
Inner Musings.
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Just because it’s called International Women’s Day, doesn’t mean it’s just for women. We need men to be involved in the gender equality movement in order to change the status quo. Therefore, you should be welcomed with open arms to any event, talk, or online discussion you attend. Hell, they might even roll out the red carpet.
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If it’s your first time attending an IWD event, it’s probably better you don’t say much at all. You’re not there to magically solve the problem. Just soak it up and be aware of how topics being discussed make you feel and your biases.
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We’ve all got that one mate. But it’s 2023 and the times they are a-changin’. Luckily, most men in our male affiliated groups report their male friends either being supportive or wanting to get involved themselves, so you might be pleasantly surprised. But with so much to gain by attending, we say fck the haters (and the cupcakes).
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Say that you are here to lean in, listen, learn and that you’re actively trying to support women. We can guarantee you, this message will be welcomed.
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If your workplace has catered this tokenistic symbol of performative HR theatrics, so be it, may as well eat them. But next year, try educating your workplace on how they can do better and bring more meaning to the day.
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Good news. You’re not attending to answer questions. In fact, explaining (or mansplaining) on IWD is the opposite of what we want you to do. We want you to be there with us, listen, hear us out and just be. Easy, right?
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We hear this often and we understand where this fear comes from. But as long as your questions and thoughts come from a genuine place, it should be met with enthusiasm rather than scorn. That’s also why there are many men’s organisations where you can discuss issues and make these mistakes. It’s expected of you, especially if it’s your first event you’re attending. Just remember, showing up and listening is enough.
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Let’s be honest, every guy has been in a situation he could’ve handled differently. Or might be ashamed of some attitudes or behaviour towards women in the past. This applies to women too! But this journey is about learning from your mistakes. What you would’ve done differently. And how not to make those same mistakes again.
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There are a number of men’s groups and organisations you can join. Drop us a note at contact@fckthecupcakes.com and we’ll share our own personal list of allies.
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Men who engage in this topic aren’t just helping to change the world for the better. Although, we’d say that’s a pretty big benefit! But research tells us that leaning in can benefit them, too.
It develops greater empathy and understanding of unconscious bias e.g. fostering better relationships with your wife, partner, kids…as well as all the females in your life.
It makes you a better leader, as you become more informed and aware as you rise to the top. You’ll soon start spotting behaviours and trends you might not have noticed previously.
Best of all, you’ll feel good just from doing good. It’s okay to be selfish about this. You will get just as much out of what you put in, we promise.
SHOW UP FOR GENDER EQUALITY THIS IWD
〰️
SHOW UP FOR GENDER EQUALITY THIS IWD 〰️
For more information please contact contact@fckthecupcakes.com
