About
The DUDES Club was established in the Vancouver Downtown Eastside in 2010 and since then clubs have been set up in communities across British Columbia (see SITES). The DUDES Club is a proven model for Indigenous men’s wellness promotion that builds solidarity and brotherhood, enabling men to regain a sense of pride and purpose in their life.
Within DUDES Clubs the hierarchy of the western medical model is flattened, and the healthcare providers who are involved prioritize cultural competence and safety, genuine connections, and support to help men navigate the healthcare system. Men who often carry with them intergenerational trauma related to the loss of or damage to their land, culture, family, language, and identity, are able to begin to drop some of their armour. All initiatives are community-driven and highlight the importance of peer champions.
Our Objectives
Build
To build solidarity, brotherhood, trust, and positive role models together with men.
Promote
To build solidarity, brotherhood, trust, and positive role models together with men.
Enable
To enable men to regain a sense of pride, purpose, and fulfilment in their life.
Our Objectives
Mission
To facilitate a participant-led community for men’s wellness with activity-based clubs that prioritize supportive relationships, engagement in healthcare, and local Indigenous worldviews
Vision
The DUDES Club’s Vision is of a renewed role for men* supporting each other and their families in building wellness and strong communities. The DUDES Club’s Vision is of a renewed role for men working with each other in building wellness and strong families and communities.
Community of Interest
DUDES Clubs welcome all self-identified men and focus on communities with significant Indigenous populations. They grow where local leadership, motivation, and resources support them. Addressing the impacts of colonialism, they serve men facing social, political, and economic marginalization.
JOIN THE BROTHERHOOD
The DUDES Club works within a context of historical colonialism and the resulting displacement from traditional land and destruction of culture, language, and healthy roles for men in society; leading to structural inequities related to poverty, social marginalization, lateral violence, intergenerational trauma, cycles of violence, and addictions. The DUDES Club also recognizes a historical context of patriarchy, which has defined inequitable and unsustainable gender roles that all too often see women and certain groups of men have marginalized status in society.
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING
Words from our DUDES
Joining DUDES Club has transformed my life. As an Indigenous man, I found a community that understands my struggles and celebrates my identity. The support and brotherhood I’ve experienced here have empowered me to focus on my wellness and mental health. Through various activities and gatherings, I’ve created lasting friendships that inspire me to be a better person. The sense of belonging and the healing atmosphere are truly unparalleled. I’m grateful to be part of such a meaningful initiative that prioritizes the well-being of men like me.
At DUDES Club, I discovered a safe space where I can express myself openly. The gatherings not only foster connection but also promote healing within our community. As an Indigenous man, I appreciate the focus on our unique experiences and challenges. The initiatives aimed at improving our overall health have been invaluable. I’ve learned so much about myself and have developed a deeper understanding of brotherhood. The friendships I’ve built here have become an essential part of my journey toward wellness. This club truly stands out as a beacon of hope and support.
Being part of DUDES Club has been a game-changer for me. The camaraderie and support from fellow members have helped me navigate difficult times in my life. I appreciate the emphasis on health initiatives tailored for Indigenous men, which makes it feel like a personalized experience. The activities we engage in not only promote wellness but also strengthen our bonds. I’ve gained valuable insights into my own well-being while also contributing to the collective healing of our community. I wholeheartedly recommend DUDES Club to any man seeking connection and growth.