Wisconsin lawmaker troubled by examination of whiteness, masculinity

The description of the course offering would seem to be without controversy. The optional course being offered at the University of Wisconsin is called The Men’s Project. According to the description, the goal of the course is “to prevent future violence by teaching participants to recognize warning signs of unhealthy interactions.” The program also provides insights about perceptions of masculinity, including gender-based violence. Basically the course teaches it is not ok to hit women, and that men have a responsibilty to ensure that is not the case. But state lawmaker Steven Nass has a problem with this course offering. He argues that it “declares war on men.” And he is threatening to withhold state funding for the University System if they don’t cancel the course and fire the teacher. Nass also has a problem with another UW course examing the problem of whiteness, encouraging white people to see the world from the perspective of a person of color. It appears Rep. Nass would rather live in a world where it is ok to hit women, or at least not talk about it, and where white people shouldn’t have to consider the experiences of others. Such a viewpoint shows just why these courses are needed. Rather than criticize the courses, perhaps Nass should enroll in them. It seems he has plenty to learn.