Alright, folks, it's that time of year again! Yes, it's International Men's Day!
Here's a fun fact: The first International Men’s Day was celebrated in 1992 in Trinidad and Tobago. Since then, the day is celebrated globally celebrating men and their rights.
An occasion that often, sadly, flies unnoticed. But let’s be honest, who can resist a day dedicated to celebrating the (sometimes crazy) creatures known as men?
First off, did you know that International Men’s Day is celebrated on November 19th every year? You might be thinking, "Why another day for men? Aren’t they already pampered enough?” Well, hold your horses!
This day isn't just about tossing a cold beer and patting each other on the back. It aims to highlight not just men's achievements but also issues they face, yep, even superheroes have their days of doubt. This day is to highlight the fact that even men face issues, be it mental, physical or societal.
The theme for this year’s International Men's Day is "Men's Health Champions".
Every year, the theme for the Men’s Day is guided by the “Six Pillars of International Men’s Day”, which are:
1. To promote positive male role models, not just movie stars and sports men but everyday, working-class men who are living decent, honest lives.
2. To celebrate men's positive contributions to society, community, family, marriage, child care, and the environment.
3. To focus on men's health and wellbeing: social, emotional, physical, and spiritual.
4. To highlight discrimination against men in areas of social services, social attitudes and expectations, and law.
5. To improve gender relations and promote gender equality.
6. To create a safer, better world, where people can be safe and grow to reach their full potential.
In India, Uma Challa, a men's rights advocate, has been instrumental in popularising International Men's Day celebrations in the country. She pioneered the celebration of International Men's Day to raise awareness about the abuse that men suffer in the anti-male legal system.
So let's raise our glasses and celebrate a day meant not only for honour but laughter too!
Happy International Men's Day! Let’s be like Uma Challa and applaud men and their efforts and their well-being in all aspects.
