Green Party leader Felix Banaszak is advocating for an “expansion of male images” in the party’s current debate on masculinity, but he strongly rejects the confirmation of stereotypes. According to his comments to the news portal T-Online, while he believes that care and responsibility are not contradictory to fitness, he stressed that physical fitness alone does not define a modern man. Despite disagreeing with every approach being discussed, he welcomed all impulses for the debate.
This discussion stems from a gender manifesto about masculinity within the Greens, which the magazine “Spiegel” reported on. The text attempts to process role models and seek ways to specifically appeal to younger men. Thirteen Green party members signed the document, including Banaszak’s co-party leader Franziska Brantner. Banaszak himself did not sign the text. “Spiegel” had also noted that the topic of fitness is increasingly being addressed by some members of the Bundestag.
Banaszak further told T-Online that many men are seeking a role model that is no longer based on violence and dominance, but rather on equality and respect. He noted that Green men are also part of this search. He raised a pointed question: “Why are so many young men who are searching for orientation susceptible to right-wing authoritarian images of masculinity? What positive counter-images can progressive forces-and thus the Greens-create?”
The party leader stated that he is honored to be “the proud chair” of a feminist party. He clarified, “Feminism is not hatred of men, but a struggle against patriarchal structures.” He added that while women are primarily affected by these structures, men who refuse or are unable to conform to prevailing gender roles are also suffering. On how to move forward in the debate, he asserted his belief that men must be approached with goodwill and understanding, while simultaneously being held accountable. He announced his intention to create spaces within the party to facilitate this approach.
