International Men’s Day, is an annual international event, celebrated on November 19. It was officially first inaugurated in 1992 by Prof Thomas Oaster. This day aims in focusing mens & boys’ health, improving gender relations by promoting gender equality, and primarily highlighting the role that a male plays, his achievements and contributions in the home, as a son, brother, husband, father and as a friend.
But, this month every year, most of the “Feminists” ask, do we need to celebrate IMD? Well, why not? Feminism is aimed to promote gender neutral laws and equality. If women do get an International Women’s Day, then why shouldn’t men be allowed their day to celebrate their achievements?
The theme for International Men’s Day 2016 is “Stop Male Suicide”. Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50. So, what is that drives men to take their lives? The reason varies- be it business, family pressures, financial pressures, failure in marriages, fake reports of harassment, dowry, and rape by their wives. So, they only see this as one way out of a troubled relationship primarily because of the social stigmas attached.
Feminists always complain that men don’t understand what they go through- in homes, offices, while commuting, or their mental and physical issues- but, do we try to understand the issues that men have to face? The constant pressure of bring the “Strong” one at home, pressure of being at the top of his game at the office, the need to prove himself to his relatives and the society- all the while trying to bring up his family, taking care of his parents, balancing the domestic & professional lives!
They are taught to be strong since they are born- if they are the first born, then they are taught to be stronger and made responsible even before they are ready; They are then made to understand their little sister’s emotions; He willingly sacrifices every little thing that he wants- only for his little sister; He then makes adjustments for his friends, girlfriends, forgoes his pocket money for her, and if there is a heart break, he has to be the stronger one, and not shed his tears- only to grow responsible, matured and stronger. He has to look after the needs of his wife, child, parents and grand- parents – and he does so willingly and unconditionally only to sacrifice his entire life for his family- for the smile of his kids, parents and wife.
Let’s salute these men and let’s give them their due.
Today’s men have to face just the similar pressures that a woman has to face. This day, let’s all pledge to give these men their due. Let’s laud them for their courage and strength.
By: Archa Dave
