International Men’s Day 2024
Date: November 19
Theme: Positive Male Role Models
International Men’s Day (IMD) is a globally recognised awareness event celebrated annually in over 80 countries, including the UK, USA, Australia, and India. First established in 1992 by Trinidadian scholar Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, the day is dedicated to celebrating men’s achievements and contributions while addressing critical issues that affect them.
The day focuses on six core pillars:
- Highlighting discrimination against men.
- Supporting male health issues.
- Improving gender relations and promoting gender equality.
- Celebrating male contributions to society.
- Promoting positive male role models.
- Creating a safer, more inclusive world.
Purpose and Significance
IMD serves as a platform to:
- Foster open conversations about men’s mental health, shorter life expectancy, and workplace deaths.
- Raise awareness of male victims of violence, including sexual violence.
- Address challenges faced by fathers, particularly new and separated fathers.
- Encourage men to embrace positive masculinity, rejecting toxic stereotypes while acknowledging their sacrifices in both peacetime and wartime.
The 2024 theme, Positive Male Role Models, emphasises the importance of role models in shaping identity, teaching young men that masculinity can be a force for good. The day encourages men to be role models themselves by making positive contributions to society and nurturing supportive environments.
Why It Matters
By celebrating men’s diversity and achievements, IMD aims to challenge stereotypes, promote gender equality, and inspire selfless acts of courage and service. The event encourages people to come together in support of men and boys, fostering a culture of dialogue and understanding
How to Help Young Boys Find Positive Male Role Models
Positive male role models significantly influence young boys by shaping their values, behaviours, and outlook on life. Here are some practical ways to guide them:
- Identify Exemplary Figures: Look for men in the community, family, or public sphere who exhibit qualities like integrity, compassion, and dedication.
- Encourage Emotional Expression: Highlight role models who embrace emotional authenticity, showing that it’s okay to express both positive and negative emotions without adhering to gender stereotypes.
- Challenge Gender Norms: Expose boys to men who challenge traditional stereotypes, such as sharing household responsibilities or supporting gender equality.
- Promote Holistic Self-Care: Introduce role models who prioritise self-care and healthy living, demonstrating that caring for oneself enables better care for others.
- Support Community Engagement: Encourage boys to admire and emulate men who actively contribute to their communities through volunteering or supporting local initiatives.
How to Be a Positive Male Role Model
Being a role model doesn’t mean being perfect—it means striving to embody qualities that inspire and guide young boys toward positive development.
Core Traits of a Positive Role Model
- Integrity and Respect: Lead by example with honesty, fairness, and compassion. Show respect for others, regardless of their background or beliefs.
- Emotional Vulnerability: Be comfortable expressing emotions openly and encourage boys to do the same. Demonstrate that strength includes emotional authenticity.
- Active Listening: Practice listening attentively and empathetically. Be approachable and willing to ask questions or admit mistakes.
- Commitment to Values: Display loyalty, strong ethics, and accountability. Help boys understand the importance of living by their values.
Actions to Inspire Positive Growth
- Challenge Stereotypes: Actively challenge toxic masculinity by being assertive without aggression and encouraging equitable partnerships in the home.
- Model Respect for Women: Teach boys the importance of respecting women and fostering healthy, supportive relationships.
- Teach Life Skills: Help boys develop a strong work ethic, financial literacy, and resilience by emphasising the value of hard work, responsibility, and learning from failures.
- Promote Selflessness and Community Support: Dedicate time to causes you care about, fostering a safe and thriving environment for everyone.
- Encourage Emotional and Mental Growth: Support boys in expressing feelings instead of bottling them up. Show them how to learn from setbacks and grow as individuals.
Impact on Future Generations
When boys see men engaging as full partners in household care, they’re more likely to adopt similar behaviours, promoting gender equality. Research also suggests that daughters of men involved in domestic tasks are more likely to pursue careers beyond traditional gender roles.
Conclusion
Being a positive male role model means living with integrity, embracing emotional openness, and challenging stereotypes. Through compassion, community involvement, and dedication to values, role models can inspire young boys to grow into well-rounded, respectful individuals who contribute positively to society.
References
Home – International Men’s Day
International Men’s Day: 5 Facts You Need to Know About Notable Occasion – Legit.ng
When is International Men’s Day and why do we need it? | UK Style-Yahoo
Male Role Models: A Complete Guide on Positive Role Models for Men | Mens Group
14 Ways to Be a Role Model – wikiHow
Be A Positive Male Role Model And Mentor For Boys – Sharpologist