BRATTLEBORO — Starting Wednesday, Oct. 19, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., Brooks Memorial Library and the Women's Freedom Center will co-host a four-part discussion series open to parents, teachers, and caregivers of older youth and teens on a variety of topics surrounding gender justice, social media, and teen relationships.
The discussions will be held once a month and led by Women's Freedom Center Youth Advocate, Anna Mullany. Snacks and refreshments will be served at these discussions, according to a news release. Here is the schedule:
• Wednesday, Oct. 19: Talking with your kids about consent and healthy boundaries. How did you learn about consent and what are the messages you send the youth in your life around this topic? This discussion will delve into how we talk to our kids about healthy boundaries and that it is never too early to talk about the importance of consent.
• Wednesday, Nov. 16: Social media, sexism, sexting. With each new app comes with new risks and pathways for online bullying, name-calling, social pressures, sexual harassment, and unwanted drama. Join for an evening of discussion surrounding the tough navigation of social media use, pressures, bullying, and the dangers kids may encounter simply by using their phones.
• Wednesday Dec. 14: Healthy relationships, warning signs, and teen dating violence. Studies show that many parents, teachers, and caregivers are unaware of the seriousness of teen dating violence and unhealthy patterns in youth relationships. Participants will have a chance to learn more about teen dating violence, what to look for, and how to help kids.
• Wednesday Jan. 18: What to Wear?! A discussion around school and dress codes. What kind of messages about females and their bodies do we get - specifically in terms of dress codes? This discussion will focus on the policing of girls bodies and sexuality and how this negatively affects both men and women. It will also offer concrete ways to talk to youth about dress codes in supportive and non-blaming ways.
The Women's Freedom Center works to end domestic and sexual violence in Windham and southern Windsor counties. The Youth Advocate works with teachers, staff, students, and caregivers around issues of consent, rape culture, social media, objectification, body image, gender identity, and healthy relationships.