International Men’s Day focuses on improving gender relations, promoting gender equality, producing responsible males and highlighting positive male role models. It also looks at addressing issues such as parenting, positive male role models, families and healthy life choices for men.
The inaugural International Men’s Day was held in Trinidad and Tobago on November 19 in 1999. Representatives from organisations such as the UN expressed support for the event, although it is not an official UN observance. A petition has called for the UN to make International Men’s Day an official UN observance in the interest of equality. International Women’s Day is also celebrated on March 8 each year.
At WeAreTheCity, we are proud to have launched our HeForShe section on International Men’s Day in 2016. Take a look here.
International Men’s Day is a time for many people to reflect on the contributions, sacrifices and progress made by men in society. Such progress includes that of men working together with women to make educational, economic, social, and technological advances in society. Topics that may be discussed or showcased through various media, activities and events on the day may include:
- Men’s and boys’ health.
- The importance of gender equality.
- Improvements towards gender relations in all societies.
- Positive male role models for younger generations.
- Men’s roles in community, family, relationships and childcare.
- Healing and forgiveness.
Meetings, workshops or group gatherings may also be held on this day to focus on overcoming challenges such as domestic violence and drug abuse. International Men’s Day is supported by various organizations worldwide, including the United Nations (UN) and the Men’s Network.
The faces of positive male role models of all backgrounds, ages, and nations are seen in various promotions, such as posters, postcards and information booklets, on International Men’s Day. Red roses have also been given to men to mark international Men’s Day. Various messages and slogans that promote the day are also publicised during this time of the year.
For more information, visit http://www.internationalmensday.com/
