ENgAgiNg MEN iN gENdEr iNiTiATivEs - Catalyst

CATALYST VIEWPOINTWhy Ernst & Young’s Approach Makes SenseThe value of exposing the costs men face dueto gender bias. When men recognize that genderdisparities hurt them as well as women, they will bemore apt to see these disparities as unfair 67 and bemore committed to acting to address them. This isone reason why Ernst & Young’s workshops focusmen’s attention on the negative impact of genderbias and what they can gain as individuals fromchanging the status quo. This strategy of exposingmen to the personal costs of gender bias can helpto increase men’s sense of fair play and also reduceapathy about gender issues.The value of engaging women and men insolution-building. This approach encourages mento “try on” the role of being a champion of genderinclusion, if only on a temporary basis. When placedin formal roles in which they are held accountablefor finding remedies for gender disparities, men willbe more likely to develop a personal stake and selfinterestin making change. 68 They will also be morelikely to champion change in their day-to-day worklives.Strategies for removing barriers to men’s supportIn addition to motivating men to support gender deter men from supporting these initiatives: apathy,initiatives, it is also important for organizations to fear, and real and perceived ignorance.adopt strategies to reduce the barriers that wouldTable 2Strategies for Breaking Barriers to Men’s EngagementBarrierApathyFearReal and perceivedignoranceStrategies• Raise awareness about what men can gain fromgender equality.• Raise awareness about the costs of genderinequality for men.• Discourage zero-sum thinking.• Invite men in.• Expose men to male role models who championgender inclusion and challenge the status quo.• Provide opportunities for dialogue both within andacross gender groups.20 | Engaging Men in Gender Initiatives