Boys Don't Cry by Bensimon Byrne

Advocacy group White Ribbon released 'Boys Don’t Cry,' a public service announcement by Oscar-nominated director Hubert Davis that offers a heart-wrenching look at the root of toxic masculinity, the role it plays in gender-based violence and how easily it might be prevented.

The three-minute film ponders what boys are and are not allowed to feel. It follows the life of a boy from infancy to young adulthood, showing how various inputs throughout his life, including episodes of bullying, tragically lead him towards committing gender-based violence.

White Ribbon wants to spark a conversation about the importance of healthy self-esteem, compassion, and emotional intelligence in boys. The video calls on viewers to visit boysdontcry.ca to learn more about how to promote healthy masculinities, prevent bullying and contribute to a future without gender-based violence.

Davis, who has been nominated for an Academy Award and Emmy Award for his work as a documentary filmmaker, directed the PSA pro bono via Toronto-based Untitled Films.