Feminism is a liberating movement not only for women but for everyone who cannot accept a patriarchal culture. But what about young men who are confused by changing gender roles in the modern age? Most young men do not relate to masculine “machismo” culture but they don’t want to be wimps either, so where do they go for guidance? Who or what is their role model? How has the “Shadow Side” of women affected their lives? This is the panel discussion local therapist Azzah Manukova will be facilitating next Friday July 5 at Shelter. The panel consists of both men and women including Jungian therapists and perspectives from young men most affected by the changes in traditional patriarchy.
We recently interviewed Azzah about her upcoming conference.
Shelter: Is patriarchy a positive or negative force for young men?
Azzah: It can be both. Although it obviously can be overtly empowering, patriarchal culture teaches boys to be afraid of their own vulnerability. It cuts them off from their emotional and intuitive side.
Shelter: What is the “Negative Feminine”?
Azzah: It’s the shadow side of a female archetype. For example, the shadow of “the mother” would do anything to maintain the umbilical cord with her children including manipulation. She is terrified of being abandoned.
Shelter: A controlling mother who doesn’t want her son to grow up?
Azzah: Sure, she resents her son’s burgeoning independence. She can’t let him leave because her identity is formed around her role as a caretaker. She may even unconsciously make him feel guilty for having a penis.
Shelter: Can’t we all just get along?
Azzah: That’s the focus of our conference on Friday. I hope it helps us access the fullness of ourselves.
Come join the conversation at 5 pm on Friday, July 5th at Shelter Theater. Tickets at sheltervg4.com and Biblioteca gift shop.