International Men’s Day (IMD) is celebrated every year on November 19 in over 90 countries worldwide. Unlike common perceptions, the day isn’t about male dominance or rivalry with International Women’s Day, it’s a platform to recognize positive male role models, address issues men face, and promote gender equality from a holistic perspective.

History and Evolution

1. Early Mentions (1960s–1990s)
While discussions about a men’s day go back to the 1960s, the concept took real shape much later. The first significant celebration occurred in 1992, initiated by Thomas Oaster, a professor in the U.S., though it faded in popularity after a few years.

2. Rebirth in Trinidad and Tobago (1999)
The modern form of International Men’s Day was re-established by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, a history lecturer in Trinidad and Tobago, in 1999. He chose November 19—his father’s birthday—to honor positive male figures in society and promote healthy manhood.

3. Global Expansion
With the support of UNESCO and grassroots activism, IMD gradually gained popularity worldwide, especially in countries like India, Australia, UK, USA, South Africa, Jamaica, and many more. It has become a globally recognized event, with thousands of discussions, seminars, campaigns, and community efforts held annually.

Objectives of Celebrating International Men’s Day

International Men’s Day aims to:

• 🎯 Promote Positive Male Role Models: Not just celebrities, but everyday men who lead responsible, honest lives.

• 🤝 Celebrate Men’s Contributions: Acknowledge men’s efforts in family, community, and society—often underappreciated.

• 🧠 Focus on Men’s Mental Health: Bring attention to emotional well-being, depression, and suicide rates among men.

• 👨‍👦 Improve Gender Relations: Encourage mutual respect between men and women, and combat toxic masculinity.

• ⚖️ Support Gender Equality: Address gender stereotypes that harm both men and women.

• 🧔 Highlight Men’s Issues: From workplace deaths and lack of educational support to legal bias in family law and health neglect.

Why It Matters

Men are often expected to be providers, protectors, and stoic problem-solvers. While strength is admirable, society often overlooks the emotional burden, health concerns, and societal pressures men carry. IMD creates space to:

• Talk openly about vulnerabilities

• Recognize overlooked struggles like fatherlessness, divorce, and job stress

• Encourage positive parenting, mentorship, and leadership

It is about redefining masculinity to be healthy, kind, responsible, and emotionally present.

IMD Themes Over the Years

Each year, a global theme guides the conversation. Some recent themes include:

• “Better Health for Men and Boys”

• “Helping Men and Boys Live Longer, Happier, Healthier Lives”

• “Making a Difference for Men and Boys”

These themes focus on practical challenges and solutions, from suicide prevention to gender literacy in boys.

International Men’s Day is not just a celebration of manhood—it’s a call for compassion, balance, and growth. It’s an invitation to value men not for power or status, but for integrity, character, and care. By embracing men’s well-being alongside women’s empowerment, we build a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.