...being a man

Are you proud to be a man?

‘There’s nothing shameful about it, but I wouldn’t go around announcing I’m proud to be a man unprompted.’ Saul, 24

‘What, the treatment of women for millennia, all those wars, all that neeeeever-ending talk about football, you must be joking.’ Nick, 56

‘Of course, I spent a lot of money on this outfit.’ Alex, 26

‘I truly think that most men are, or want to be, positive influences in and on society, but we’re dragged down by a vitriolic few who peddle some really horrible narratives.’ Oscar, 22

‘No strong feelings here really. But I do quite like my calves.’ Josh, 34

‘I am proud to be a gay man. Other than that, I do not feel the male of the human species has done much to make me feel any sense of pride… just shame and embarrassment. And historically white men are the worst. So a resounding no from me.’ James, 39

‘I’m proud to be a human soul that doesn’t hold back from expressing themselves any more.’ George, 35

‘I try to ensure I’m a father — and a man — my son can look to and be proud of. But

I am aware of the inherent privilege I have as a (white, straight) male and feel somewhat embarrassed by that.’ Charlie, 40

‘Not particularly — but nor am I ashamed of it.’ John, 74

‘I’m proud to be a human being!’ Roop, 85 ‘Yeah, sure don’t mind it.’ Jasper, 13

‘I feel proud to be a man when I have positive male role models in my life, such as my dad or my mates. On the other hand, I feel ashamed when I see men like Andrew Tate, who believe that their gender makes them better than everyone else.’ James, 24

‘I’m not proud of all men, but I’m proud of the man I am.’ Mike, 31

Embracing manhood: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air guys give it a go