San Francisco Hosts Unique Contest to Identify “Performative Males”

A unique event unfolded in San Francisco on March 15, 2024, as attendees gathered at Alamo Square Park for a contest aimed at identifying the city’s most distinctive “performative males.” This informal competition drew over 1,600 participants, who came together to explore the concept of masculinity in an engaging and lighthearted way.

The term “performative male” refers to men who adopt certain feminine traits or behaviors, often in an attempt to appeal to women. Attendees AJ and Mayliah described such men as those who “dress for the female gaze,” projecting an image that contrasts traditional masculinity. They noted that many of these individuals might be from Los Angeles, suggesting they had exhausted their options there.

Contestants displayed a variety of fashion choices that included thrifted cardigans, platform shoes, and a penchant for matcha lattes. The event featured a preliminary round that utilized a custom-built artificial intelligence model to identify participants who best fit the performative archetype. This model analyzed traits like clothing style, beverage preferences, and even reading material, such as feminist literature, to determine the most fitting contestants.

As the excitement built, the park buzzed with energy reminiscent of a concert, as attendees dressed in their best outfits prepared for the contest. Many showcased their collections of CDs and tote bags while music by Charli XCX filled the air. The competition itself was organized by a group of young women, including Alisa Wu and Jia Chen, who aimed to create a memorable experience before returning to their respective universities.

AI-Powered Contest with a Twist

The AI model fed on a diverse dataset that included images of popular cultural symbols like Labubus and flared pants. Contestants uploaded photos to performative.lol, where the AI filtered out those deemed less than authentic in their performativity. While some entrants sat anxiously awaiting their turn, others engaged in playful antics, including attempting backflips or displaying humorous slogans like “Future is Female.”

Throughout the contest, participants were rated by a panel that used a star system reminiscent of video games. The winning title of “most performative male” went to James Bennett, a local favorite and UC Berkeley graduate. Sporting baggy jeans, a thrifted cardigan, and a matcha latte, Bennett embraced the spirit of the event. He expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “We shouldn’t villainize men enjoying feminine things.”

Bennett’s victory was celebrated by fans eager to capture the moment with photos. He emphasized the importance of appreciating diverse expressions of masculinity, suggesting that engagement with feminist literature can be a positive influence.

A Growing Trend

The concept of identifying “performative males” has gained traction in various cities, with similar contests occurring in places like Seattle and Silverlake, Los Angeles. The San Francisco event reflects a broader cultural conversation surrounding masculinity and femininity, as traditional gender roles continue to evolve.

As the evening concluded, the atmosphere remained vibrant, underscoring the community’s enthusiasm for both self-expression and inclusivity. The contest not only celebrated individuality but also sparked dialogue about the complexities of gender identity in modern society.

This gathering exemplifies how San Francisco, known for its progressive values, can channel creativity into a fun and thought-provoking event. As the city continues to embrace diverse perspectives, initiatives like this may pave the way for further exploration of gender dynamics in a contemporary context.