International Men's Day
Mark your calendars for November 19th every year, because International Men's Day is a global celebration that shines a spotlight on the incredible positive influence men bring to our world.
The theme for International Men's Day 2024 is 'Men's Health Champions,' which aims to bring awareness to the often-overlooked health challenges men face. It encourages open conversations about physical, mental, and emotional well-being, breaking down societal stigmas and empowering men to prioritize their health.
This is a call to promote gender equality and an invitation for men to step up as inspiring role models for the next generation.
With participation in around 70 countries and a humble beginning in Kansas City in 1994, International Men's Day is a powerful movement encouraging us all to celebrate and support the men who make a difference.
Exploring The History of International Men's Day
Men from across the globe have been calling to establish an International Men's Day since the 1960s similar to International Women's Day.
Initially, men campaigned for International Men's Day to be observed on February 23. In 1994, the Director of the Missouri Center for Men's Studies in Missouri, Thomas Oaster, organized an International Men's Day event in Kansas City, but it didn't garner much interest so it didn't happen again.
The day was officially established in 1999 by Jerome Teelucksingh, a professor at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago. Teelucksingh wanted a day separate from Father's Day, to celebrate men who are not fathers as well as young and teenage boys.
International Men's Day for Teelucksingh was a day to highlight the positive impact that strong male role models have in the world, which is why he chose November 19 to mark the birthday of his father.
International Men's Day began growing in popularity in North America in 2008. It officially spread to Canada in 2009, with celebrations, events, and an official course for men entitled 'Manology: Exploring 21st Century Masculinity.'
Since then, the day has evolved to highlight issues that affect men, such as mental health problems and problems of identity that come from issues of toxic masculinity and what is expected from men.
This day aims to fight gender stereotypes and encourage men to be who they want to be. Men have a huge influence on society and their communities, and thus they should lead by example and help to make the world a place that is safe for everyone.
The Six Pillars of International Men's Day
According to the IMD website, International Men's Day is based on six objectives that should always be kept in mind when celebrating this holiday.
- To promote positive male role models.
- To celebrate men's positive contributions to society.
- To focus on men's health and well-being.
- To highlight discrimination against men.
- To improve gender relations and promote gender equality
- To create a safer, better world.
How To Celebrate International Men's Day
A different theme is allocated to celebrate International Men's Day every year and every event/activity is based on this theme.
Themes have ranged from "Giving Boys The Best Possible Start In Life" in 2011, to "Celebrating Men And Boys In All Their Diversity" in 2017, among others.
To truly honor International Men's Day as a man, become a beacon of positive influence for the young ones around you, guiding them towards their best selves.
If there are no youngsters in your family circle, consider volunteering with organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, dedicated to helping those with challenging childhoods. And always remember to express your gratitude to your own male role models for their profound impact on your life.
Highlight Men's Mental Health
The theme of this year's International Men's Day is 'Men's Health Champions,' so take this opportunity to emphasize the importance of men's mental well-being. Encourage open conversations about mental health, break the stigma around seeking help, and remind men that asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Show Some Appreciation for the Men in Your Life
This International Men's Day, take time to acknowledge the men who have positively influenced you- whether it’s a father, brother, partner, or friend. Write them a thoughtful note, have a meaningful conversation about how much they inspire you.
Create an International Men's Day Tradition
Besides showing appreciation, arrange for relaxing and fun activities on International Men's Day. This might include a bbq, lunch, movie night, spa treatment for some pampering, games night or something else.
The primary motive should be to make the men in your life feel special and included.
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