In a world where confidence meets charisma, a new phenomenon has emerged– the Sassy Men Apocalypse. But what does sassy mean?
The word sassy is used to describe someone who is impudent, vigorous, or distinctly smart and stylish according to the Mariam-Webster dictionary. This word was initially derived from “saucy” and was first used in the 19th century. In the past, society viewed the trait of being “sassy” as a negative quality mainly associated with women, a feminine trait.
However, over time, this perception has shifted to something more positive and being “sassy” is now seen as a way for self-defense and display of confidence— maybe even as a word of empowerment.
But how does any of this correlate to men being sassy these past years?
There has been an increase in men becoming sassy– such an increase caused the name “Sassy Men-Apocalypse” to arise. The apocalypse refers to countless videos on the internet that have surfaced, documenting men acting sassy. These videos show the recorder’s significant other, brother, father or even a random stranger giving witty remarks and giving attitude.
Although many people may find these types of videos entertaining or engaging, it’s important to acknowledge the negativity that can come with them. There are those who don’t find this kind of behavior entertaining, and this is often due to toxic and unfair societal standards that dictate that men shouldn’t be seen as “sassy” as being sassy is seen as a feminine trait.
The following are a few unfavorable comments that have been noted on various social media videos featuring men characterized as sassy: “Come on brotha, be a better man of God,” “Fellas, is it gay to be cozy and warm,” “Some women really make me sick.”
Throughout time, society has been more accepting and supportive towards men and their journeys of breaking out through male stereotypes, one of them being that men shouldn’t show emotions and should keep to themselves.
Senior Christopher Garcia shares his thoughts on toxic male standards.
“It’s really harmful because it forces these types of mindsets on them, that they shouldn’t show emotion at all and makes them feel like they can’t cry,” Garcia said.
While the trend is intended to be amusing for its target audience, it has been deemed harmful for other groups of people: religious, conservatives, homophobes, machistas, etc.
When people think of a sassy man they tend to associate it with characteristics of what would typically be associated with feminine behavior. This reinforces gender norms, that men shouldn’t show any sort of emotion or else they are considered gay which is seen as something negative in many cultures.
Comments such as “Fellas, is it gay to be cozy and warm,” may be seen as harmless and considered a joke, but can perpetuate underlying issues of sexism and have long-term effects. In this case, this comment may influence men to think that being sassy means being gay.
The rise of the “sassy men apocalypse” phenomenon has also had a broad influence on societal norms and cultural expressions. To begin with, it stimulated a reevaluation of traditional gender roles, challenging stereotypes and encouraging men to be more outspoken and colorful.
This shift has led to greater acceptance of diversity in masculinity, promoting confidence and individuality in men of all backgrounds.
Senior Nohe Cosare, who identifies himself as part of the Sassy Men Apocalypse, believes that being sassy is not a negative trait and can help men express themselves better because it’s simply fun.
“I feel like more men need to be sassy… be sassy because it’s fun– it’s fun to be sassy,” Cosare said.
