International Men’s Day is a global awareness day dedicated to celebrating men’s achievements and addressing critical issues affecting men and boys worldwide. It serves as a platform to promote positive male role models and raise awareness about men’s well-being, including mental health, social, and physical challenges.
Quick Facts
When is it?: November 19 annually
Tagged as: Global awareness day
What’s the hashtag?: #InternationalMensDay
When was it founded?: 1992, relaunched in 1999
Who founded it?: Thomas Oaster (1992), Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh (1999 relaunch)
History
The concept emerged in the 1960s when men advocated for a counterpart to International Women’s Day. Thomas Oaster first introduced it in 1992, celebrating it in February. However, the day gained global recognition when Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh from Trinidad and Tobago revived it in 1999, choosing November 19 to honor his father’s birthday.
Timeline
- 1968: First editorial about the need for Men’s Day by John P. Harris
- 1992: First celebration in February by Thomas Oaster
- 1999: Global relaunch by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh
- 2003: Australia joins the celebration
- Present: Celebrated in over 80 countries worldwide
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | November | 19 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | November | 19 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | November | 19 | Thursday |
| 2027 | November | 19 | Friday |
| 2028 | November | 19 | Sunday |
| 2029 | November | 19 | Monday |
How It’s Observed
The day focuses on six key pillars: promoting positive male role models, celebrating men’s contributions, focusing on men’s health, highlighting discrimination against men, improving gender relations, and creating a safer world.
Fun Facts About IMD
- Celebrated in over 80 countries across six continents
- Men in the Americas typically live 5-7 years less than women
- The day addresses various issues including mental health, suicide prevention, and family relationships
- Initially celebrated in February before moving to November globally
Quiz
- When was IMD relaunched globally?
- Who revived International Men’s Day in 1999?
- How many countries currently celebrate IMD?
(Answers: 1999, Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, Over 80 countries)
FAQs
- Why November 19th? It marks Dr. Teelucksingh’s father’s birthday
- Is it a competition to Women’s Day? No, it focuses on unique men’s issues
- What are the main objectives? Promoting positive male role models and addressing men’s well-being
Related Celebrations
- Father’s Day
- International Women’s Day
- Men’s Health Week
- Movember
- World Mental Health Day