HeForShe Advocate for UN Women Germany Champions Gender Equality in ARTE's New Documentary

In a groundbreaking exploration of masculinity and feminism, ARTE, a public broadcaster focusing on audiences in Germany and France, recently aired a one-hour documentary titled "Men and Feminism. Is that Possible?" The program delves into the evolving landscape of gender equality and features insightful interviews with various advocates, including Fikri Anıl Altıntaş, one of the HeForShe advocates for UN Women Germany. Altıntaş's passionate activism, along with other male allies and renowned scholars and feminist activists such as Carolin Wiedemann or Dr. Emilia Roig highlighted in the documentary, sheds light on the importance of engaging men in the fight for gender equality.

Fikri Anıl Altıntaş, a fervent advocate for gender equality, emphasizes the significance of including men in feminist dialogues. He believes that by engaging men and fostering discussions on masculinity, we can pave the way for a more inclusive society. He chooses to challenge traditional gender norms and advocate for change in a patriarchal society. As a HeForShe advocate for UN Women Germany, Altıntaş works tirelessly to push forward the feminist debate from a male perspective and influence both politics and society.

“I firmly believe that men will have access to feminist answers in times of uncertainty if we speak to them and take them with us. And that exchanges about #masculinity can be an avenue for this. This isn't about calling yourself a feminist, but about the work and solidarity behind it.” 

 

 

 

 

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The documentary introduces viewers to other male allies like Bolewa Sabourin from Paris, who strives for true equality in his relationship by actively sharing child-rearing and household responsibilities with his wife. Despite the challenges, Sabourin remains committed to dismantling patriarchal structures within his own family dynamic. Philip Siefer, founder of a Berlin-based company operating on feminist principles, advocates for freedom from hierarchical structures. His company promotes democratic decision-making processes and eliminates traditional managerial roles, fostering an environment of equality and empowerment among employees. Comedian Moritz Neumeier adds a touch of humor to the discussion by addressing gender equality in his performances. However, he highlights the persistent gender disparities within the cultural sector, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and awareness. ARTE's documentary serves as a powerful testament to the growing involvement of men in the feminist movement. Through insightful interviews and compelling narratives, viewers are encouraged to reconsider traditional notions of masculinity and embrace a more inclusive vision of gender equality. As Fikri Anıl Altıntaş aptly puts it, the journey towards feminism isn't just about labels—it's about the collective effort to dismantle patriarchal structures and build a more equitable world for all.

Watch the full documentary here.