Fashion Law Journal
How are these even related? Let’s find out.
When I first embarked on my sustainable living journey in the winter of 2018, I decided to seek inspiration and guidance from social media experts who have been leaders in this space. As I started to dive deeper into the sustainable fashion community, specifically on Instagram, it became pretty evident to me that there are a handful of male activists in this space. The space seemed to be more crowded by female activists than male, and that didn’t really make sense to me.
At that time, I blatantly accused Instagram’s strange algorithm and my inability to use the search function. It wasn’t until a year ago that I decided to brainstorm and scout what had caused this – and I discovered a trend that I was not expecting to unravel. As per research, toxic masculinity is one of the major obstructions that discourages men from pursuing environmentalism and sustainability.
SO WHAT EXACTLY IS TOXIC MASCULINITY?
Toxic masculinity is a value system that allows men to engage in behaviors that reinforce and encourage misogynistic gender roles. Men who are aligned to these sets of values are often aggressive, dominant and participate in emotional restraint.
The term, which is often referred to as “traditional masculinity” was apparently coined in the ‘80s by Shepherd Bliss, Ph.D., and has of late found its way into mainstream culture. Dr. Bliss was considered one of the prominent leaders of this movement and he, through his work, sought out a new kind of masculinity. As a part of a similar trend, many advocates for equality and feminism have spoken up to encourage men to reimagine the definition of masculinity in the 21st century, just like an amazing video by Justin Baldoni right here.
Moving a step further from the internet definitions of toxic masculinity, let’s hunt what this means at its core. Toxic masculinity exists as a rejection of femininity, hence it is obvious that it harshly and at times, ruthlessly dismisses any behaviors that are seen as feminine. As a result of this, men avoid actions that are linked to feminine behaviors like recycling, vegetarianism or even carrying reusable bags. As per a study run by the University of Pennsylvania, both men and women see working towards the environment as ‘a feminine activity.’
The prime reason for this being, unlike toxic masculinity traits like competition and dominance, environmental stewardship is cooperative and nurturing to all. Indeed, this inherently stems from the internalized and often problematic perceptions of masculinity and femininity. It makes complete sense to me now, why I was unable to find more men activists and advocates for the environment. Toxic masculinity is surely at odds with environmentalism. However, for me, the real problem is less that some men do not recycle or carry reusable bags, but more that this collective inherent mindset is an opposing movement and causes real collateral damage. Enter the climate change deniers.
AND WHAT IS THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF THIS?
There is a set of values and behaviors connected to toxic masculinity called “industrial breadwinner masculinity”, as coined by researchers Martin Hultmand and Jonas Anslhem. According to this, men see the world segregated into humans and nature, and they believe that humans are obliged to use nature and its resources to make products, and that nature will tolerate all types of the waste generated henceforth. And as per their set of values, economic growth is more important than the environment.
Even though this climate denial originates from toxic masculine attitudes, it did not spiral out of thin air. Industrialists have been spreading the same propaganda through right-wing tanks for decades, as early as 1970’s, in spite of being fully aware of the impending climate crisis. They have gone as far as insinuating ‘scientists’ to legitimize their false information. They have spent billions to oppose important climate policies rather than trying to change the operations of their companies. As a result, the most important and necessary environmental policies never make its way to the legislation.
The danger here lies in the fact that these powerful people leverage their wealth to create a positive feedback loop for climate denialism, which is fueled by the industrial breadwinner masculinity behavior and on both ends.
ACTIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
Are you feeling overwhelmed and (almost) defeated reading all this information? Don’t worry; you are NOT ALONE. It is difficult to digest all this information, especially the fact that an anti-environmental framework has been embedded deep in our system. However, as citizens of this better-to-be world, all of us can work together to overcome this virus of toxic masculinity –
- Start With Your Personal Life – Most times, if we need to change the world, we need to start with ourselves. The next time, if you catch yourself perpetuating toxic masculinity like ridiculing someone for behaving in a way that does not align with the gender role, stop and reflect. And try to look at people simply as people; irrespective of their gender.
- Intersectional Environmentalism – Intersectionality in the sustainability movement is important for understanding and further, dismantling harmful structures such as toxic masculinity.
- Stop Being A-Political – Multiple people and climate movements are working together to implement real change at the ground level, to prevent the climate crisis, and there are just as many ways to get involved. Some of those include joining climate protests, donating and supporting activists’ work, amplifying the work already being done, or getting involved with climate initiatives at a local government level to drive change in your communities.
- Advocate New Systems – Toxic masculinity is especially dangerous for the environment because white men hold an inordinate percentage of wealth and power. This power can in fact be wielded to promote climate denialist agendas. Outside of political work, we need to reimagine a world where power is shared equally.
And my two cents on this – No matter how you choose to get involved, remember that your activism will never be perfect. What matters is that you continue to show up.
Short Bio: Arushi is a sustainable fashion enthusiast with a keen eye for mindfulness. A Brand Manager by profession, she strives to work with small sustainable brands, with an intent to share their stories with the world. Currently pursuing her specialisation in fashion branding from Milan, she hopes to make sustainability a lifestyle; a life of Good Aesthetics with Ethics.
