A Call to Action Against Male Domination: Men Unite to Combat Violence Against Women
In a powerful response to the ongoing Mazan rape trial, over 200 men, including notable figures such as writer Gaël Faye, comedian Guillaume Meurice, and singer Eddy de Pretto, have signed a
road map
to put an end to male domination.
The Pelicot affair has highlighted that male violence is not an issue of monsters, but rather a systemic problem involving ordinary men,
writes activist and therapist Morgan N. Lucas, who initiated this movement.
The trial, which began on September 9, involves 51 men accused alongside Dominique Pelicot, who is charged with drugging his wife and enabling her to be raped by numerous men over a decade. This harrowing case has ignited discussions around the responsibility of men in addressing systemic violence against women.
Lucas emphasizes that all men benefit from a patriarchal system that oppresses women, stating, "Since we are all the problem, we can all be part of the solution." This sentiment is echoed in the road map, which calls for men to take actionable steps to dismantle the structures that perpetuate violence against women.
The Road Map to Change: Ten Steps for Men to Take Responsibility
The road map, first proposed in May by actor Vincent Lindon, outlines ten crucial points for men to consider in their everyday lives. These include ensuring consent in relationships, actively listening to women's needs, and recognizing their own privileges. Importantly, it urges men to unlearn toxic masculinity and engage in conversations about gender equality.
Among the signatories are actor Gilles Lellouche, playwright Alexis Michalik, and healthcare professional Martin Winckler, all of whom advocate for a more equitable society. Lucas's article also addresses the backlash against the hashtag #notallmen, which emerged during the trial, asserting that such reactions detract from the systemic nature of the issue.
Furthermore, the road map emphasizes the importance of understanding that the absence of overt signs of violence does not imply that it does not exist. Lucas poignantly states, "Just because you don't have shells in your living room doesn't mean there's no war going on." This analogy serves to remind men of the pervasive nature of male violence and the need for them to be proactive allies in the fight against it.
As the conversation around masculinity and violence continues to evolve, this initiative represents a significant step towards fostering a culture of accountability and respect. The call for men to engage in meaningful dialogue and action is crucial in creating a safer environment for women and dismantling the patriarchal structures that have long been entrenched in society.
