We, as men, can be allies and partners to ending violence in our communities and promoting safe and respectful relationships.

Why should men care about ending violence against women?

• Whether we see it or not, violence is happening to our sisters, mothers, daughters, partners, friends. Alaska still ranks number one in the nation in violence of men to women.
• The only way violence will end is if we take specific action to prevent it.
• Our participation in prevention and intervention efforts, reinforces that most men want women, children, and other community members to be safe. Men and women are partners in ending violence.
• We need a comprehensive community solution – community solutions start with individuals like us.
• Violence can only happen in an environment that supports violence.  We can change that environment and eliminate factors that support violence: attitudes, policies, practices etc.
• Through the promotion of equality: both men's and women's unique experiences will be understood and will be able to inform effective policy.
• We are allies and people who influence others.  We influence our friends, children, family members, church group members, and others every time we define manhood and strength in the ways below.

As a male ally we:

• build relationships based on respect and equality,
• speak out against violence in our society,
• have the strength to ask for help,
• share decision making and share power,
• respect diversity and the rights of those around us.

We are clear that manhood is not defined by:

• how many sexual partners you have,
• using violence against women or men,
• how much pain you can endure,
• how much power you can exert over others,

 We can start by:

• Being a respectful male role model
• Contacting schools, domestic violence and sexual assault programs, community or men’s groups, or others to find out how to work together to prevent violence against women
• Bringing together male allies in your community to develop community-based solution
• Contacting info@andvsa.org to connect with White Ribbon Campaign, Youth Leadership, or Coaching Boys to Men Alliances in Alaska
• Advocating for federal, state, community, school, and organizational policy change that supports equality and accountability