Men Need Men to Lead Them, by Ann Burns

Not long ago, I opened up an email detailing Catholic events in the area. There, in bright colors, was a men’s conference announcement. A good thing, right? But looking at the keynote speakers, I couldn’t help but wonder why a picture of a young woman graced my screen. Feeling as if I morphed into a nosy old lady, I zoomed in on the picture. Yup! My eyes had not deceived me. Presenting to a room full of men on what masculinity is, would be an ostensibly young lady.

I tried to imagine the scene: men like my father, my husband, brothers, etc., all gathered at the skirts of a young girl as she lectures them on their masculinity. I wasn’t sure if I should laugh or be appalled. And before anyone accuses me of internalized misogyny, can we call to mind any of the innumerable instances of men explaining “women things.” ….