International Men’s Day on the 19 November was founded in 1999 by Dr Jerome Teelucksingh a history lecturer at University of the West Indies in Trinidad Tabago.
In the early years IMD received overwhelming support in the Caribbean and due to the persistent networking and invitations sent to individuals in other nations International Men’s Day has taken root on the international scene.
The Caribbean initiative is now independently celebrated in countries as diverse as Singapore, Australia, India, United Kingdom, United States, South Africa, Haiti, Jamaica, Hungary, Malta, Ghana, Moldova, and Canada and interest in the event is increasing rapidly.
Since 1999 the methods of commemorating International Men’s Day have included the giving and receiving of gifts, public seminars, forums, conferences, classroom activities at schools, Men’s Health events, Movember fundraisers, radio and television programs, Parliamentary speeches, Government Observances, Church observances, prayer meetings, peaceful gatherings and marches, awards ceremonies, special retail promotions, music concerts and art displays.
The manner of observing this annual day is optional; any organizations are welcome to host their own events and any appropriate forums can be used.
Celebrate International Men’s Day
The month of November is important for the masculine soul because it gathers several events that are important to men. Movember is the month we focus on raising money for mens health.
Remember that the day is not intended to compete against International Woman’s Day, but is for the purpose of highlighting men’s experiences.
International Men’s Day encourages men to teach the boys in their lives the values, character and responsibilities of being a man.
Mahatma Gandhi said, “We must become the change we seek.” It is only when we all, both men and women, lead by example that we will create a fair and safe society which allows everyone the opportunity to prosper."
