BINGHAMTON, N.Y. – Binghamton University’s Center for Civic Engagement is hosting a two-part speaker series (part of "Passion to Action") exploring the facts surrounding and solutions for ending violence against women and the importance of including men in this critical discussion. According to the United Nations, 35 percent of women worldwide experience either physical and/or sexual violence each year.

There will be a panel discussion exploring the "masculine ideal" and how it produces violence against women and other men at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9, in Room 103 of the University Union. Panelists will include Ann Merriwether, a lecturer in the psychology department; John Cheng, assistant professor of Asian and Asian American studies; Stephen Gleason, graduate student in public administration; and Abbey Pelot, a social worker at the YWCA of Binghamton. A short segment from the documentary film The Mask You Live In will kick off the event, followed by discussion and audience questions.

Internationally recognized author, United Nations liaison and co-founder of the White Ribbon Campaign Michael Kaufman will deliver a talk titled "Men With Passion, Taking Action to Promote Gender Equality and Good Relationships," at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, in the Anderson Center Chamber Hall, on campus. Learn more about The White Ribbon Campaign and Kaufman’s efforts online.

For questions, contact the Center for Civic Engagement via e-mail cce@binghamton.edu or call 607-777-4287.