Maine Boys to Men is committed to providing space for men to reflect on their experiences around masculinity and to explore connections between societal expectations of gender, self-harm, and violence. We've recently expanded our "Men Connect: Conversations in Masculinity" program and now offer a bi-weekly opportunity for immigrant, refugee, and asylum-seeking men to meet with experienced facilitators to explore their unique experiences with masculinity and to discuss tools for self-care, healthy relationships, and violence prevention. It has been a powerful experience to connect, share, learn, and reflect openly with this group of about twenty-five men from seven different countries.
Men Connect for New Mainers meets virtually, with the intention to resume safe, in-person meetings this spring/summer. For more information or to get Zoom links for upcoming meetings, email info @ maineboystomen.org.
"Since my husband started to join the MB2M meetings he changed his behavior. I realized that there is somebody in the shadow helping understand how a couple can engage in uncomfortable topics together, but doing so comfortably." ~Partner of a Men Connect for New Mainers participant
"I am lucky to be joining the MB2M in USA, specifically in Portland, Maine. This helps me a lot to get integrated into a new culture and understand the prevention piece to avoid the bad attitude in terms of dealing with a partner. I think I am in a good space at a good time." ~Francis, Men Connect for New Mainers participant
Our facilatators: Guy Mpoyi Tshitoko, Christian Bisimwa, and Chris Kelleher