The 19th of November serves as the International Men’s Day to be observed by all men, women and children. This day helps in focusing on the issues related to the men, be it health related issues or any other social issues. We will now look at its importance, history of the event and what will be its theme in 2024.
What is International Men’s Day?
International Men’s Day is one of the most significant and important events that focus on the contributions of men to society across the globe. The event will focus on the health, social and family engagements of men throughout the world. What’s more, it is a time to recognize constructive men, as well as tackle many of the most important issues such as men’s health, equality, and what urges good males to do what’s right.
From Where Did International Men’s Day Emerge?
International men’s day is celebrated in 1992 and it is a brainchild of dr. Jerome, a historian in Trinidad and Tobago. Teelucksingh saw a need for an annual event to commemorate the importance of the men’s’ not only in families or in workplaces and society. H
S time progresses, the international observance of this celebration gained popularity in different aspects and countries. On the other hand, it also affords an opportunity to honor the role of men, their problems, and the necessity of gender equality.
The Relevance of International Men’s Day
International Men’s Day is not only about achieving prominence in male oriented issues, it is also about working towards changing the perception of such issues in a larger context. A case in point, men are among the highest suicides, drug addicts and perpetrators of violence. This day allows for full-blown discussions and constructive criticism of negative perceptions of males’ mental health.
Besides, IMD contributes to the promotion of gender equality. It aims for breaking stereotypes about men and disseminates positive messages that men can and should act in a caring and nurturing way. Men also play important roles in the family and the community. Rather, as fathers, brothers, teachers and employed individuals, men are a great contributor to the health of the peoples.
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International Men’s Day 2024 Theme
International Men’s Day features different themes every year. For 2024, the theme is: “Better Health for Men and Boys.” Due to this theme, bringing attention to and addressing the mental and physical health problems experienced by men and boys is the main focus. In addition, it will advocate for access to health and support services as well as initiate discourse about mental illness without placing blame.
The expectation is that men will be in a position to own their health and ask for assistance where necessary.
Global Observance and Celebrations
International Men’s Day is marked all over the globe with a number of events and activities directed at creating awareness on the prevalent issues affecting men. Schools, universities, organisations and vocational training institutions can organise lectures or forums relating to male welfare, women’s rights as well as family roles.
In a number of countries, there are public lectures, fund raising activities and social media efforts to depoliticize male issue
Moreover, the day promotes the appreciation of decent men who should serve as role models. Such people are those who are ethical, firmly assume their responsibilities, and care for others in society and business. Thus, by appreciating such men, the observance advocates for how positive masculinity can help shape a better world.
Addressing the Stigma: Why Men Need to be Supported as well
A key purpose of International Men’s Day is to eliminate the stigma that often flies around men’s emotions and mental health. Men have societal expectations of managing feelings, and this is detrimental as it can result in conditions like depression and other mental health challenges – which are on the rise in men. Such days, IMD in particular, strives to defend these issues by promoting dialogue around them.
Across numerous cultures, there exists an intense pressure regarding mental health, where men strive to maintain a tough exterior and be independent. International Men’s Day is an important initiative that helps in creating awareness and provides a platform to discuss the necessity of creating support systems designed for men specifically.
Gender equality and men – What’s their role in this? Men’s role in Gender equality
In the same way as women, it is possible for men to also be in a box of gender stereotypical views. These stereotypes can lead to lack of opportunities for men & are the root cause of various other social evils.
These expectations are unreasonable and the objective of IMD is to promote gender equality and inspire other men to stand behind women’s equal rights. It’s an invitation for men to lend their voice and mobilize support in non-threatening ways to build a fairer world within the society they live in.
Conclusions
There is a reason to believe that men and women around the world may support the cause of International Men’s Day and work against the stereotypes that are most harmful, and in the process, perhaps make the world a better, all inclusive place for everyone. Click here for the source
