The Mask You Live In - Free Film Screening

Join the Montana Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence for a free screening of the award-winning film, The Mask You Live In followed by a community discussion about the issues facing young men and boys in our community, and what we can do to combat toxic masculinity and challenge what it means to be a "real" man. "The Mask You Live In follows boys and young men as they struggle to stay true to themselves while negotiating America’s narrow definition of masculinity. Pressured by the media, their peer group, and even the adults in their lives, our protagonists confront messages encouraging them to disconnect from their emotions, devalue authentic friendships, objectify and degrade women, and resolve conflicts through violence. These gender stereotypes interconnect with race, class, and circumstance, creating a maze of identity issues boys and young men must navigate to become “real” men. Experts in neuroscience, psychology, sociology, sports, education, and media also weigh in, offering empirical evidence of the “boy crisis” and tactics to combat it. The Mask You Live In ultimately illustrates how we, as a society, can raise a healthier generation of boys and young men." Youth and teens are encouraged to attend and to be part of the discussion. However, topics of domestic and sexual violence, bullying, and suicide are discussed in the film and may not be suitable for young children.