Join a conversation with a group of Alaskan men about living in the “Man Box.” Moderated by AWAIC’s Male Engagement Specialist Naya Raymundo, this virtual panel discussion is presented in partnership with the Anchorage Museum. Unpacking the “Man Box” means confronting and dismantling negative stereotypes and messaging about masculinity in our culture. Meet the men who work in violence prevention who invite you in on this important conversation to discuss their experiences and their work to build a healthy, nonviolent society.
Panelists:
Johon EchoHawk Atkinson was born and raised in Metlakatla, Alaska and is from the Tsimshian and Pawnee nation. Johon is a youth counselor in his village and has been working with men and boys towards ending violence against women for the last eight years. He is also the President of the Alaska based non-profit Liwaayda which uses the culture and traditional values of the Tsimshian people to bring back the balance needed in this world.
Doug Koester grew up in Chicago. Later, he moved to Homer where he worked and lived for over 23 years. Recently, he moved with his family to Juneau, Alaska and works part time with the Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (ANDVSA). He is primarily works at engaging men and boys in violence prevention. He also has a passion for teaching about bystander intervention and the affects of trauma as a way to reduce hurt and harm and find healing in our world.
Gene Tagaban/Guy Yaau is a Cherokee, Tlingit, Filipino man who has worked nationally and internationally for the last 30 years. Gene’s passion is mentoring, speaking, performing, facilitation and healing. He is a board member and trainer with the Native Wellness Institute and a trainer for the Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (ANDVSA), facilitating COMPASS: Choose Respect, a male engagement and mentorship program to end domestic violence and sexual assault.
David Abad (he/they) is Ilocano and Queer, born and raised by immigrant families on Lingít Aaní, specifically Juneau. He currently works as a prevention coordinator for AWARE, Inc, an organization in Juneau, Alaska that works with survivors and families seeking safety from domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as an advisor to Haa Tóoch Lichéesh, a relationship-centered coalition that bridges community with social justice awareness, advocacy and education.