In the struggle to stop rape and all forms of men’s violence against women, it is time for men to leave the sidelines and get in the game. One important step we can take is to raise our voices and insist that the spotlight in media coverage of rape turns away from a fixation on victims and their behavior and instead focuses on abusive men and boys – and the culture that produces and makes excuses for them.
About Rus Funk
Rus is a long time activist for gender, racial and sexual justice. He has been working specifically to combat sexual and domestic violence, racist violence and homophobia for over 25 years. He is currently the co-founder and Executive Director of MensWork: eliminating violence against women (a nonprofit organization based in Louisville, KY USA). He is also an internationally recognized consultant and sought after speaker and trainer.
Eliminate
The entire purpose of MensWork is to eliminate sexual and domestic violence. Men who choose to act in abusive or violent ways are not “monsters” or “evil.” They are men who grew up learning many of the same lessons that many of us as men learn about treating women.
Engage
Beyond educating men, MensWork believes it is critical to engage men as partner and allies in responding to and preventing sexual and domestic violence. We welcome men to become a part of our organization.
Educate
MensWork offers educational programs throughout the community. Our educational programs focus on defining sexual and domestic violence as “men’s issues,” and then examine ways for men to be involved.
Rus’ aha moment
When I realized that a close relative had suffered from abuse, I was driven to end the cycle by helping men learn to support and encourage women in their lives.
