Our very own Michael Kehler, of the Werkland School of Education, was featured in the UCalgary News this week.
Michael speaks about the ways we demonstrate certain versions of masculinities within different contexts. Specifically Michael shares his insight on the Calgary Stampede and all things Western through the lens of his research practice, which focuses on Masculinities Studies in Education. In his research, Michael operates from a pro-feminist standpoint and focuses on how masculinities are fluid and socially constructed.
“If we're putting on a version of masculinity, we should also acknowledge that we can disrupt those ways of being in other contexts... and to acknowledge that there are different ways of being a man.”
Inclusion at Stampede has been a focus for community groups for awhile, and over a decade ago community organizer Charles MacMichael began disrupting the narrative when he launched the inaugural Calgary Stampede Pride Day. Since then, the event has seen a huge influx of LGBTQ2S+ participants and allies. Although strides have been made, Michael notes we need to continue finding ways to build upon the tradition that welcomes all communities.
About Michael Kehler
Originally from Kingston, Ontario, Dr. Kehler completed his undergraduate degrees (B.A. Hons, B.Ed) at Queens’ University. Following years of teaching high school English within Canada and abroad, Dr. Kehler pursued his Ph.D from Michigan State University. He taught at the Faculty of Education and Women’s Studies at Western University, London, Ontario for 17 years before accepting the position as Research Professor in Masculinities Studies in Education at the University of Calgary, Werklund School of Education.
