On August 12th a group of men who were active in the Men’s Week 2015 programmes, featured in Design Anguilla magazine’s “Men’s Issue” as well as those who serve as Gender Focal Points for the Gender Affairs Unit joined for a “Men’s Gathering”at the Deputy Governor’s residence. This was yet another event in keeping with the Gender Affairs Unit’s commitment to national outreach and advocacy around gender issues in Anguilla.
The event was hosted by Deputy Governor Stanley Reid in an effort to provide a forum for young men to express their thoughts and ideas about constructive change needed in Anguilla – a forum to help them turn their words into action that would benefit the national community.
Deputy Governor Reid noted that he was pleased to host the first of what would be quarterly gatherings of like-minded men focused on improving the conditions of men and boys in Anguilla. The gathering comprised a few of the positive role models who are diligent in their own field of endeavours. Mr. Reid looked forward to “realizing specific goals identified by the group.”
The topic of discussion for the first gathering focused on education, technology and building a male’s character. Future discussions will include, but not limited to, the importance of father figures, effective male role models, the influences of culture on young men, health and self-development, economic concerns (un/employment and entrepreneurship), leadership training, healthy relationships and ending abuse and violence.
Gender Development Coordinator, Dr. Ronya Foy Connor, noted that the vision of the Gender Affairs Unit is to build the capacity of men, women, girls and boys. She was thankful that DG Reid had provided a forum for men to gather in a constructive setting focused on collaboration and encouragement.
The next gathering will take place during the Gender Affairs Unit’s “16 Days of Activism” programme, from November 25 – December 10, 2015, which is focused on ending all forms of violence, assisting vulnerable persons, promoting community service, and advocating for human rights and social justice.
