Ken the Movie: Allyship and When KENough is not Enough

Am J Health Promot. 2024 Jan;38(1):8-11. doi: 10.1177/08901171231210075. Epub 2023 Oct 18.

Abstract

This editorial reviews Barbie the Movie in the context of workplace and community health and well-being. Issues of gender equity, patriarchy, and the role of women in empowering women were all factors that were dealt with thoughtfully and poignantly in the movie's script. A missed opportunity in the movie related to the role men could play as allies in the gender equity movement. Hence, I set out to reconcile this omission by proposing a story line for Ken the Movie. I present gender and health disparities as problems that will require leadership in, and best thinking about, gender equality from both men and women.

Keywords: allyship; gender equity; health disparities; health promotion; identity.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Leadership
  • Male
  • Motion Pictures*
  • Public Health
  • Workplace*