Men in the Movement: A Gender Equality Intervention for Young Men of Color in Louisiana

Engaging men as advocates and change agents is a critical mechanism to challenge and reform the social and political factors that impact women's sexual and reproductive health. While there is a growing body of evidence that well-designed interventions can increase males' gender-equitable attitudes and behaviors regarding sexual and reproductive health, most studies focus on men as partners. This paper describes the development and implementation of Men in the Movement, an intervention that provides a safe space for young men of color in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Louisiana, to consider a gender-equitable future of manhood, discuss issues that are important to them, and to empower them to become advocates and leaders in their communities. This program trained two male youth education interns to facilitate discussions with about 100 young men of color about sexual health, healthy relationships, social justice, advocacy, and leadership.