Prominent author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has reaffirmed her dedication to raising her sons with values centered around gender equality and respect for women.
In a recent interview with BBC’s Emma Barnett, which was shared on YouTube Wednesday, the 47-year-old writer discussed the impact of toxic masculinity and the vital role parents play in shaping the next generation’s values.
“I’m committed to raising good men. I want them to never feel entitled to women’s bodies,” Adichie shared.
Adichie, who welcomed twin boys last year and only publicly shared the news last month, also underscored the importance of positive male role models. While she noted that young girls today have influential female figures to look up to, she expressed concern that boys are often lacking such role models.
“Little girls now have women in public life they can admire, but I don’t think boys have that in the same way,” she observed. “Instead, that space is filled with harmful figures and ideas. I wish more good men would speak up.”
A passionate advocate for feminism, Adichie emphasized that masculinity must evolve in line with the principles of equality.
“Culture doesn’t shape us, we shape culture,” she said. “We can redefine masculinity in a way that aligns with equality. It’s possible.”
Adichie’s latest book, Dream Count, was released on March 4, 2025. She also opened up about how becoming a mother temporarily affected her writing process.
“I don’t like to use the term ‘writer’s block’ because I’m superstitious, but it did happen when I was pregnant,” she admitted. “Something shifted, and I don’t think it was purely physiological.”
