Cal Poly to Host March 1 Panel Discussion on Men’s Place in #MeToo Movement

February 23, 2018

SAN LUIS OBISPO – Cal Poly campus leaders will participate in a March 1 panel discussion on engaging men in the #MeToo movement. The event is open to the public and will run 3:30 to 5 p.m. in University Union Room 220.

Recognizing that the struggle to end sexual violence is rising to greater prominence, the Cal Poly panel will discuss a variety of topics related to men in the #MeToo movement, including privilege and power, the #MeToo backlash, and tangible steps for immediate change.

“I see this discussion as a wonderful opportunity to create a meaningful dialogue at Cal Poly about an important movement in our country,” said Vice President for Student Affairs Keith Humphrey, who will serve as one of the panelists. “I’m looking forward sharing my thoughts and gaining some new perspective on these issues.”

Added Christina Kaviani, director of the Cal Poly Safer and Men and Masculinity programs: “If we can get more males talking about ending sexism, we can begin challenging the normalization of sexual and dating/domestic violence. Through conversations, we have the potential to be role models and change behaviors that are hurting men and women.”

Joining Humphrey on the panel will be Jamie Patton, assistant vice president, Diversity and Inclusion; Mardel Baldwin, assistant director, Student Academic Services; Jose Leon, lead coordinator, Cross Cultural Centers; and Nick Bilich, coordinator, Men and Masculinity Program.

The event is hosted by Cal Poly’s Men and Masculinity Program, which engages students regarding gender-based violence. The program was created with the purpose of establishing positive masculine gender norms on campus and responding to men involved in incidences of gender-based violence with restorative support through education, advocacy and mentorship. For more information, visit:https://masculinity.calpoly.edu/.

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