Dennis Duggan (left), a liberal arts professor at North Central Michigan College, and Bill Wilson, a Licensed Master Social Worker, facilitate discussion after a local screening of the film Tough Guise 2. Wilson is also a Violence Prevention Team volunteer and 100 Men Campaign contributor. The film examines a culture that fosters a ‘guise’ of tough masculinity and results in a society in which men perpetrate 90% of the violence. A third screening of the film will take place at Charlevoix Public Library at 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 13. The free local screenings are being provided by funds raised through the 100 Men Campaign.

Community members gathered recently at North Central Michigan College,the University Center Gaylord and Charlevoix Public Library to watch the documentary Tough Guise 2 and discuss the issue of male violence in America. The film examines cultural developments that promote a learned masculinity, or ‘guise’ that is in part responsible for current levels of school shootings, domestic abuse, sexual assault and dating violence.

Following the film, audience members discussed the roots of violence and how to be a more active bystander. Many in attendance wanted to know what they could do in their daily lives to help prevent the violence that is primarily perpetrated by boys and men.

Audience members said they were looking for ways to foster the qualities of respect, compassion, kindness and appreciation in their sons and other young people they know. Although some viewers thought the film addressed extreme instances of violence, students in the audience agreed the violence depicted reflected their reality. Students also mentioned the pressure for young men to be ‘intimidating’ with peers.

“The film presents this pervasive problem and challenging issue, yet it’s up to all of us, including men, to work toward real change,” said Jan Mancinelli, executive director of the Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan (WRCNM).

“This film and others like it are a catalyst for moving community members to action and to seek solutions to ending this violence,” said Mancinelli. “Input and support from men is essential to help change attitudes that so narrowly and negatively define masculinity.”

Men in the audience were invited to a workshop-style event “Men’s Call to Action” which will be held at the Demmer Wellness Pavilion in Petoskey on May 29. This is an opportunity for local men to move from awareness to action and further examine their role in helping to build safer communities.

The Men’s Call to Action will be held at the Demmer Wellness Pavilion on Arlington Avenue in Petoskey at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, May 29. Complimentary food will be available.

Those interested in learning more about what they can do to help promote respectful, healthy relationships and non-violence may visit the 100 Men website at wrcnm.org/support/100-men-campaign. The site provides local, state and coaching resources, links and information.