Every year on November 19, International Men’s Day is observed to promote awareness of the health and well-being of men and boys, as well as to highlight the difficulties that they confront. The day also recognizes the good contributions that men make to the world and encourages them to be great role models. The theme for 2023 is ”Zero Male Suicide,” a nod to men’s disproportionately high suicide rate.
Because suicide is the leading cause of death among men under the age of 45, International Men’s Day attempts to establish a safe environment for men to discuss their mental health. International Men’s Day aims to inspire men all across the world to be more accepting of and open about mental health challenges.Â
Uma Challa, an advocate for men’s rights in India, has been key in popularizing International Men’s Day festivities in the country. She was the driving force behind the observance of International Men’s Day in order to raise awareness about the mistreatment that men face in the anti-male judicial system.
The Origins of International Men’s Day
According to its website, Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, a history instructor at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago, launched International Men’s Day in 1999. It has been observed every year since then, and it is now observed by more than 80 nations.
The Importance of International Men’s Day
The gathering allows individuals to acknowledge and cherish the guys in their life. Men perform important responsibilities in their life, whether they are a parent, brother, or spouse. According to the organization’s official website, “International Men’s Day is a chance for people worldwide of goodwill to give recognition to the men in their lives and the valuable contributions they make to society for the betterment of all.”
International guys’s Day honors these guys by bringing to light the difficulties that they confront. Its goal is to ensure men’s emotional, physical, social, and spiritual wellness. International Men’s Day aims to spark a discussion about issues such as mental health, toxic masculinity, and the frequency of male suicide.
The day, however, is about more than simply celebrating men; it is also about strengthening gender relations and supporting gender equality.