So, remember how this event is based on “Validation”? Well, here’s where we sat and spoke about the importance of validation in our society. We were treated to an independent charity joining us, talking about ‘Masculinity’ in society. This independent group was started by a LUSH member of staff from the old store, who came together with a bunch of fantastic people to spread important messages around this subject.
We covered a range of things that come to mind when we think of ‘masculinity’ – Things such as mental health, society, masculinity in males and females and expectations and judgment. One of the founders of this group told us the story of a close family member who suffered with mental illness and took his life. We spoke about this sensitive topic with compassion and even more so inspiration to change society in order to help those who battle these fights daily. Society has this common misconception that Men shouldn’t show emotion or weakness.. which is why the male suicide rate is so high. We need to make everyone from each walk of life realise that they are valid, their emotions matter and they are allowed to express themselves in any way they need no matter who they are or where they come from.Β
We spoke about how certain careers are seen as stereotypical, for example: If a male works in the beauty, hair, fashion or cosmetics industry, he often has his sexuality questioned; The same for women who work in trades like engineering and mechanics. We touched on the topic of women with short hair being called lesbian and how women are questioned if they are gay but feminine.Β
Masculinity is a broad topic and is so much more important and in depth than people think, and validation means everything to it. We must remember that masculinity is to the individual and isn’t something labelled to a specific job, walk of life, gender or sexual orientation. The moral of the story is to be kind, and try to understand each individuals situation and feelings. We’re all fighting battles and they are ALL relevant.
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