Stephen Graham, the acclaimed Emmy-winning actor, has initiated a global project titled “Letters to Our Sons.” This initiative invites fathers to pen personal letters to their sons, focusing on the essence of manhood. The resulting compilation aims to explore masculinity through diverse fatherhood experiences.
Project Overview
The book, which is anticipated to launch in October 2024, will be published by Bloomsbury. Graham is collaborating with Orly Klein, a psychology lecturer, to curate contributions from fathers worldwide.
Call for Participation
Fathers can submit their letters starting on October 15, 2023, until January 12, 2026, via the project’s website. Selected letters will be featured alongside contributions from Graham and other prominent figures.
Impact of Adolescence
This initiative follows the success of Graham’s Netflix series “Adolescence,” which examined the challenges of modern masculinity among teenage boys. The show became Netflix’s second most-watched English-language program globally and sparked vital conversations surrounding father-son relationships and social pressures.
Addressing Modern Issues
Graham highlighted a growing disconnect between fathers and sons, stating, “We want to hear from men of all ages.” He emphasized the importance of communication between fathers and sons about what it means to be a man today.
Supporting Young Men
The impetus for the book also originated from Klein’s personal experience. When her son turned 13, she requested letters of guidance from her male friends, thus laying the groundwork for this project. Klein’s academic focus includes marginalization and youth culture, which aligns with the project’s goals.
Social Relevance
Campaigns in recent times have raised awareness about the influence of harmful ideologies on young men. A study indicated that 69% of boys aged 11-14 encountered misogynistic posts online, prompting concern from educators and mental health advocates.
Collaborative Efforts
Both Graham and Klein plan to donate a portion of the proceeds from the letters to the charity MANUP? and the social enterprise Dad La Soul, both aimed at supporting young men’s mental health.
Conclusion
Letters to Our Sons is more than just a compilation; it aspires to ignite a broader cultural movement surrounding parental engagement and male identity. With the potential to create meaningful dialogues, this project seeks to redefine masculinity for future generations.
