Maryland Governor Wes Moore pledged to focus on uplifting young boys and men. This initiative comes at a critical time when boys and men face increasing struggles in areas such as education, mental health, employment, and involvement with the criminal justice system.
Governor Moore’s announcement was clear: his administration would begin implementing “targeted solutions to uplift our men and boys.” He acknowledged the mounting crisis: male suicides have increased, many have retreated from the workforce, boys trail girls in educational outcomes, and Maryland is sending young boys into the juvenile justice system at rates far above the national average.
“On every single indicator we care about,” Moore told the Washingtonian, “young men and boys are falling off.”
This focus on young boys and men is new and a departure from traditional policy discussions that have often centered on the struggles of women and girls, leaving men’s issues on the back burner. Governor Moore’s acknowledgment of this disparity represents a necessary step to address these pressing concerns.
The data Moore referenced is stark: labor force participation for young men is at a two-decade low. Suicide rates for men under 30 have surged by more than a third since 2010.
Educationally, boys are lagging behind girls, with college attainment levels for men now resembling those seen in 1964. The state also sends youth under 18 into state prisons at twice the national rate.
“The data is telling us a clear message,” Moore said in his address. “We need to better understand and address what is happening with our men and boys.”
But this is not just about lifting one group; it’s about ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive.
“Now, I want to be clear. This administration remains steadfast in our support of all Marylanders, regardless of their gender or their background,” Moore said. “And as the father of both a son and a daughter, I want both of my children to grow up with all of their God-honoring and God-given opportunities. But if we want to truly unleash the power of Maryland’s labor force, we need to make sure that our men and boys are all right and that our men and boys are not continuing to fall behind.”
As the first Black governor of Maryland, Moore’s path to leadership wasn’t easy as a young Black man. His childhood struggles from academic challenges to run-ins with the law, serve as a reminder of the hurdles many boys and young men face. He hopes his leadership can provide similar transformative opportunities for young men across Maryland, offering them a better vision of their future.
While specific policy details are still in the early stages, Moore has directed his cabinet members and agency heads to brainstorm solutions for the state’s boys and men. These conversations are set to begin in April.
Although other states have initiated smaller efforts—such as Utah’s task force on male wellbeing and Connecticut’s push to recruit more male K-12 teachers—Governor Moore is setting a precedent by committing to a broad and substantive focus.
The initiative also places emphasis on mentorship and community-based support programs. The Governor’s speech referenced Maryland’s commitment to expanding mentorship opportunities through nonprofits like We R Us, which connects men and boys with local mentors who serve as role models and provide guidance.
These programs, particularly for young men at risk of falling behind, can help provide the social and emotional support needed for success.
“I’ve lived it,” Moore said of the disparities young men face.
Governor Moore’s commitment to mentorship and his understanding of the challenges faced by young men make this initiative important to him.
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