Overview

Azad Foundation is dedicated to empowering resource-poor women, queer persons through the Gender-Just Skill Education Framework. One of the important pillars of this framework is engaging men and boys as allies for gender justice. The lack of personal and professional progression for men and boys due to entrenched and harmful gender norms and patriarchy and these norms not only impede the holistic development of boys and men but also reinforce systemic patriarchy, resulting in far-reaching consequences for the entire society.

Since 2014, our Men for Gender Justice (MGJ) programme has transformed the lives of over 5,000 young men and boys, challenging harmful masculinity, addressing gender-based violence, and promoting equitable relationships.

Why Men and Boys?

Boys and men are conditioned to adhere to rigid gender roles and expectations of masculinities. This conditioning manifests in normalized violence, perpetuate harmful stereotypes, pressure to earn at the cost of higher education, inability to articulate emotions, and resistance to adopting gender-sensitive behaviours. Simultaneously, these expectations fuel frustration, and a dearth of safe spaces for expression and growth.

Azad believes true gender equality requires men and boys to rethink masculinities and become active partners in change. The MGJ programme fosters critical thinking and encourages gender-equitable attitudes and behaviours for a more inclusive society.

Our Impact

  • Challenging Patriarchal Norms: Breaking stereotypes that glorify risk-taking and aggressive behaviours.
  • Promoting Equity: Encouraging shared responsibilities in unpaid care work and respectful relationships.
  • Building Allies: Positioning men as advocates for women’s rights and gender justice.
  • Reach: Engaged over 5,000 young men since 2014, offering pathways to contribute to a broader movement for social justice and democratic equity.

Centre for Masculinities: A Collaborative Initiative

To deepen impact, Azad launched the “Centre for Masculinities”, a hub for knowledge, innovation and collaboration. The Centre addresses gaps in capacity and programmatic knowledge by offering:

  • Capacity Building Programs: Gender Equality & Masculinities (GeM) course to equip CSO partners with critical perspectives and skills for effectively engaging men and boys for gender justice.
  • Resources: Evidence-based documentation and developing learning material.
  • Collaborative Platforms: Forums and conclaves for organizations working on masculinities.
  • Research & Policy Engagement: Intersectional studies on masculinity across caste, class, ethnicity, and sexuality.
  • Technical Assistance: Strategic support for designing and implementing effective programs.

Our Global and Regional Engagement

Azad actively shapes discourse through:

  • Co-chair, Men Engage India Network.
  • Member, Men Engage Global Alliance and South Asia Alliance.
  • Contributor, Men Care Campaign.
  • Non-Traditional livelihood Network.

Call to Action

Join us to advance gender justice, reduce gender-based violence, and promote inclusivity across all identities. Partner with the Centre for Masculinities for training, resources, and collaborative efforts to create lasting change.

Contact Us: centreformasculinities@azadfoundation.org; hari.sharma@azadfoundation.com

Mobile No: +919602843102

Donate to Azad Foundation

By contributing to Azad Foundation, you invest in a future where women are empowered to reach their full potential, and enable them to live with dignity and respect.

₹ 3,000

enables three women to improve their English language skills

₹ 60,000

enables a woman to complete her training course and break the cycle of poverty

Learn more about programmes you can impact

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Tax Exemption under 80G

All donations to Azad Foundation are exempted under Section 80G of Income Tax Act.

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Many ways to empower change

Join us as a volunteer at Azad Foundation and make a meaningful impact on the lives of underprivileged women in New Delhi, Jaipur, Kolkata, and Chennai. Your contribution will not only enrich the lives of others but also provide you with invaluable personal and professional growth opportunities.

Volunteer  

Are you passionate about social justice and committed to empowering women? At Azad Foundation, you will not only have a job but a purpose. You will be part of a transformative movement that empowers women to break free from poverty, achieve self-sufficiency, and for women and men to become agents of change in their communities. Join us and embark on a career that makes a lasting impact on society.

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