Conference focuses on men

Some say the role of the traditional man is changing and today’s “Men, Family and Community” conference at the University of Northern Iowa is addressing a number of the concerns men have. Allen Hayes, the director of Public Policy at U-N-I, says the increase of women in the workforce has shifted the male role as chief breadwinner and head of the household.He says sometimes it’s difficult for men to adapt to those changes. But Hayes says the changes are for the better. He says it reflects the changing role of the women, but it does require an adjustment for both genders.The conference includes a series of workshops, including a panel focusing on the African American population. Hayes says black men, on average, make less money than white men, and that’s stressful for blacks. Tavis Smilely, a commentator and host on the Black Entertainment Network, will be the keynote speaker. The Conference began at nine this morning.