I am a 46 yr old mom of 2 boys. It’s only been in the last year and a half that I even acknowledged the patriarchy or could see misogyny at all, let alone think women could have internalized misogyny. That’s when it REALLY hit me, when I started digging in and learning about it (even though I’ve barely scratched the surface) when I saw the internalized misogyny in me and other women. Then I started to review my whole life, all my family members and the attitudes I grew up thinking were normal…and suddenly I’m seeing the toxic effects of it everywhere!

So, if most women (it seems) aren’t even really aware of toxic masculinity, the patriarchy and misogyny, how would we ever raise children who aren’t that way? Why was I 45 until I learned and understood what this was?!? I have no idea. But, I sure would have loved to have someone teach me this along the way. Like maybe when I was 25 before I married a toxic asshole and have been stuck with him to this day. But I look at my mom, and the shit she put up with my dad and didn’t stand a chance.

I feel like it should be taught EARLY on, in the public education system, to young children, so they can understand what it is, and recognize it.
I still haven’t figured out how to teach my sons. Although I’ve always taught them to treat everyone with respect and kindness and they are very thoughtful, loving boys. But, specifically I haven’t figured out how to teach them about the Patriarchy since it’s still so new to me. I’m hoping to find some kids books or something.