Anderson Men invited to Breakfast on April 24

South Carolina ranks as the #1 state in the nation for women killed by men; 1 in 5 female college students are sexually assaulted; 1 in 4 women are the victims of domestic violence; and over 50% of middle and high school girls experience sexual harassment in school. Historically, the movement to end violence against women has been led chiefly by women. Today, advocates are now working to engage men as allies in the effort to promote a healthy view of masculinity and to work towards ending all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls. On April 24, Safe Harbor, Foothills Alliance and a group of interested Anderson community members are inviting men to “come to the table” by hosting a community breakfast at ANMED Women’s & Children’s Hospital in the Peggy Dean Room from 8-9:30am entitled, “A Call To Men: Equipping Men to End Violence Against Women and Girls.”  Keynote speaker, Mr. Tony Porter, co-director of a national organization called A CALL TO MEN (www.acalltomen.org), will discuss how men can be engaged in the movement to end violence against women.  Porter is recognized nationally and internationally for his expertise in organizing and educating men in the effort to create a healthier understanding of masculinity and to equip men as allies in the movement to end violence against women. He is dedicated to strengthening community accountability to end all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls.  Will Merritt, color analyst for Clemson Sports Network, will share opening words at the breakfast and Tom Ervin will share brief remarks at the end of the event. All interested men in Anderson and Oconee counties are invited to attend this event to learn how they can work towards ending violence in their roles as business leaders, officials, clergy, teachers, coaches, counselors, youth leaders, non-profit managers, fathers and friends. The breakfast is free-of-charge, but seating is limited. Reserve your seat at www.acalltomenanderson.com.  This event is sponsored in part by ANMED Health, Boulevard Baptist Church, Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Seneca, Gray Digital Group, and Mental Health America of Anderson County.