Statements like “boys will be boys” or “men will be men” are sometimes used to wrongly justify sexism or improper behaviour toward women under the guise of light-hearted banter. In an effort to combat sexual assault, Scotland Police has created a campaign that aims to change men’s thoughts and encourages them to reflect on their own conduct.
“Don’t Be That Guy” is a campaign that exposes numerous scenarios in which men may try to justify their actions as trivial, but which make women feel uncomfortable or threatened. Several males involved in the campaign highlighted activities that were typically dismissed as “insignificant,” such as “sliding into DMs” or complimenting a woman’s appearance by stating she looked like a “doll.” They also discuss guys “guilt-tripping” or forcing women to do things they don’t want to do.
The performers then question viewers if they have ever been guilty of doing the same thing, while they tread on additional risky zones that either verge on sexism or explain behaviours that would qualify as sexual harassment.
The campaign comes amid rising worries in the UK about sexual assault and misogyny, particularly after police officer Wayne Couzens was sentenced to life in prison for the kidnapping, rape, and murder of Sarah Everard.
The initiative was sponsored by Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s First Minister, who described it as “powerful and important,” according to The Guardian. “I’d ask all men to watch this film – and then encourage your sons, fathers, brothers and friends to do likewise,” she added.
The film has gone viral, with many applauding it for attempting to combat sexual abuse by encouraging men to think about their behaviour.
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