UWLP Launches New Male Allyship Discussion Series

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Utah men were some of the most supportive of women’s advancement in that era supporting suffrage, education, and sharing opportunities with women to speak in public.

In that spirit, the Utah Women & Leadership Project at Utah State University, has launched a new discussion series for men, "Male Allyship - A New Conversation." This male allyship series is aimed at helping support efforts of A Bolder Way Forward, a statewide movement to help more girls and women in Utah thrive.

Using a group-learning approach—led by a video facilitator—there are five conversations (gatherings). Small groups meet for sessions that include video segments, activities, discussions, and reflection. UWLP commissioned Jared Harding, a Utah learning experience designer and consultant, to develop a group approach to the video series.

“Our state can again become nationally recognized for the way men and women work together for the common good,” said Susan R. Madsen, founder and director of UWLP. “As men and women join forces to improve the status of women in the state, we will elevate families and strengthen the positive impact of both women and men in their communities and the state as a whole.”

“Imagine a Utah where every man steps off the sidelines to actively foster a culture of equality. Many men want to help but don’t know where to start,” said Harding. “By participating in this video series, you’re joining a movement reshaping communities, workplaces, and relationships across our state.”

As part of A Bolder Way Forward statewide movement, a Male Allyship Impact Team has been tasked to educate and convene men across the state to join A Bolder Way Forward. To learn more about male allyship, please review our list of resources and the free online course. More information about male allyship is available on the Impact Team spoke page. 

“Every conversation sparked by these videos could ignite a wave of positive change across Utah,” said Madsen.