the pillow talk project connects men with their emotions to defy toxic masculinity

“According to a recent study, men who adhere to traditional masculine norms are more likely to struggle with social functioning and mental health issues. And they are less likely to seek help. The cost: increased violence against others and themselves. Men are 4 times more likely to successfully commit suicide than women, 90% of which are related to mental illness. As they struggle silently, we all feel the consequences, especially the bodies of difference (women, minorities, and the LGBTQIA+ community). The proof:  2016 was one of the deadliest years for the LGBTQIA+ community due to hate crimes. Police brutality and frequent violence against black and brown bodies, youth included, has become even more alarming. 1 in 3 (35%) women worldwide have experienced some form of physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime. And there’s so much more.”

These are just some of the issues tied directly to toxic masculinity that a new and powerful initiative is seeking to address. Through essays, interviews, and art campaigns, The Pillow Talk Project (TPTP) is a social movement started by Keith F. Miller Jr. to share stories of men—and those who love them—with vulnerability, in order to rethink the relationship with masculinity.

“The goal,” Miller explains, “[is to] empower us all to rediscover the power of everyday intimate conversations and their role in helping us heal, learn, love, and live, differently.”

“We need a fundamental shift in how we see men and how men see themselves. We are hurting. But no one’s talking,” Miller says. “And it’s not because we don’t want to. We aren’t allowed to. To change this and heal our nation, it’s time to reclaim the kitchen counters, living rooms, patios,  and bedrooms, and birth a revolution of intimacy creating safe(r) places for fearless, necessary, and heartfelt conversations between men and those who love them. Only then can we make progress. The kind that positively affects us now and  generations of men to come.”

Click here to learn more about The Pillow Talk Project!