International Men’s Day (IMD) is about raising awareness and trying to address issues that men face in today’s society.
The Men and Boy’s coalition are responsible for IMD in the UK, and have this year have set a theme to ‘make a difference’ and ‘give men and boys better life chances’, by addressing some of the issues that affect Men and Boys, such as:
- The high male suicide rate
- The challenges faced by boys and men at all stages of education including attainment
- Men’s health, shorter life expectancy and workplace deaths
- The challenges facing marginalised men and boys in society (for instance, homeless men, boys in care and the high rate of male deaths in custody)
- Male victims of violence, including sexual violence
- The challenges faced by men as parents, particularly new fathers and separated fathers
- Male victims and survivors of sexual abuse, rape, sexual exploitation, domestic abuse, forced marriage, honour-based crime, stalking and slavery
- The negative portrayal of men, boys and fathers
How can you help?
First of all – take time out of your day to learn what IMD is really about. Find the events or groups in your area – take part in something that’s already existing. Raise awareness of today, let people know it exists, and what it stands for. Become informed of the statistics of issues that affect men.
From there, it’s up to you.
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Reach out to that mate you haven’t spoken to in a while, or maybe you’ve seen them fall silent. Encourage others to do the same.
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Get involved in a men’s group or charity, either by volunteering or donating
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This month is obviously Movember – check in with any of your friends getting involved, see where they’re up to. Help them with their causes. Maybe even start one yourself!
And most importantly – just get involved. Celebrate and cherish this day together – whether you have a pint with the lads, talk to your partner about your issues, or thanking your role model.
It’s time to speak up, be heard, and make a difference.
Champagne Pope 