To wrap-up a week of activities aimed at ‘keeping men and boys safe’, more than 80 persons enjoyed dinner and a film premiere at Grand Old House, last Tuesday (19 November) on International Men’s Day.

Organized by the Family Resource Centre, this year’s observance shone a spotlight on the need for society to consider how it can provide for and protect men and boys, although men are traditionally considered protectors and providers.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Premier and Minister responsible for Community Affairs, Hon Alden McLaughlin, Kenneth Bryan said, “It is through the work and actions of active fathers and male role models that help our boys move into a positive transition from boyhood to manhood. Therefore, now is the time to keep our boys safe so that they will become role models for future generations.”

While performances by rock band Inverse and the Savannah United Church Boys Choir kept the crowd entertained, a highlight of the evening was the short film: Boys’ Voice.

Created by local producers by Ben Hudson & Mari Abe, the film featured interviews with 9 boys from various local high schools, who offered honest advice about today’s experiences and challenges such as: gang violence, relationships and sex, peer pressure, societal expectations of traditional roles, bullying, as well as promoting fathers and male role models among other issues. The producers of the film were recognised with a Socially Conscious Filmmakers award.

Emphasising the call to end stereotyping, Mr Bryan also said “Providing our young men with opportunities to express their feelings and dialogue on issues of importance to them is an important start to redefining what we determine as acceptable in our culture.”

Mr Bryan told those at the dinner that “Most times men and boys are afraid to cry because of what society may think. However, if we as men understand that it’s ok to be sensitive then we will learn one of life’s best gifts.”

Mr Bryan was also impressed by the young participants and extremely grateful for the continued positive support that these boys receive. Minister of Gender Affairs Tara Rivers also offered some encouraging words.

Thousand Man March organiser Phil Jackson presented the boys with a book about building character.

Family Resource Centre (FRC) Coordinator Miriam Foster, who heads the committee, called the decision to focus on male safety timely and relevant.

Photos:  Photos by Information Officer Yvette Cacho

1.         Minister Tara Rivers (left) and Winston Connolly (left) pictured with some of film participants.

2.         Inverse rock band.

3.         Minister Tara Rivers (left) seated with Kenneth Bryan.

4.         Audience watching film premiere.

5.         Group of female attendees.