Every year, International Men’s Day (IMD) is marked across the globe to spotlight the positive value men bring to their families, communities, and societies.
Though far less publicized than International Women’s Day, IMD has steadily gained recognition as conversations around mental health, fatherhood, and gender balance continue to expand.
How International Men’s Day Started
The idea of dedicating a day to men dates back to the 1960s, but the modern observance was officially revived in 1999 by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, a lecturer from Trinidad and Tobago.
He chose November 19 to honor the birthday of his father, whom he described as a strong role model, as well as to commemorate a local event that promoted peace and unity.
From there, the celebration began to spread.
Organizations, activists, and educators embraced the idea of a day that recognizes the unique challenges men face, while also encouraging them to live responsibly and be positive contributors to society.
Today, International Men’s Day is celebrated in more than 80 countries with support from schools, NGOs, government bodies, and community groups.
What the Day Represents
International Men’s Day highlights six core pillars.
These include:
1. Promoting positive male role models – beyond celebrities, focusing on everyday men who work hard and show integrity.
2. Supporting men’s health and well-being – especially issues like depression, high suicide rates, and stress-related illnesses.
3. Highlighting the value men bring to society as fathers, mentors, leaders, workers, and caregivers.
4. Improving gender relations through understanding and mutual respect.
5. Creating a safer, fairer world for everyone by addressing issues that affect boys and men, such as educational struggles and societal pressures.
6. Promoting responsibility in the way men treat themselves and the people around them.
Why International Men’s Day Matters Today
As global conversations around gender become more inclusive, IMD plays a key role in balancing the narrative.
Many mental health experts note that men often face pressure to “stay strong,” making them less likely to seek help when struggling.
International Men’s Day provides a platform to challenge stereotypes and encourage openness.
The day is also significant for discussions around fatherhood, mentorship, and the role of men in building peaceful communities.
Schools use the opportunity to teach boys the importance of character, responsibility, and respect.
Community groups use it to celebrate hardworking men, while policymakers discuss how to create better support systems for men and boys.
A Day for Reflection and Positive Change
International Men’s Day is not a competition with women’s celebrations; rather, it complements them by recognizing that a healthier society includes the well-being of every gender.
It encourages men to be better versions of themselves and invites communities to appreciate men who uplift others.
As the celebration continues to grow, the message remains clear: when men thrive—mentally, emotionally, and socially—the world becomes a stronger, more balanced place for all.
