International Men’s Day
On November 19 International Men’s Day celebrates worldwide the positive value men bring to the world, their families and communities.
Why is International Men’s Day important
The day is an annual observation to throw light at the contribution of men in bringing positive value to the world, their families, and communities.
How to observe International Men’s Day
-
Donate to a men’s charity
There are lots of charities dedicated to helping men live better lives. The Gay Men’s Health Crisis helps to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS and to help those who are afflicted with HIV improve their health and independence. (Despite the name, it also provides assistance to straight men). The Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation helps to raise awareness of testicular cancer and highlights the importance of self-examination. And the ManKind Initiative is dedicated to helping men escape and recover from domestic violence and abuse.
-
Learn more about lesser-known influential men
Consider picking up a book or watching a movie about an exceptional man whose life and work is still making an impact on the world today. The Black American Experience tells the story of Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, the second man in history (and the first black man) to perform a successful open-heart surgery. The Imitation Game is a moving and dramatic portrait of Alan Turing, the man who invented modern computing and helped end World War Two. Which influential men would you like to learn more about?
-
Check-in with the men in your life
Building positive relationships with men is a lofty goal, but it does have humble beginnings. Check-in with your male family members and friends, and see how they’re doing. If we’re happy at home, that’s half the battle.
____________________________________________________
Tip:
Resources
- men have a suicide rate 3 times higher than women
- 1 in 3 men have been the victims of domestic violence
- men on average die 4-5 years before women
- men are nearly twice as likely to suffer from lung cancer than women
- men are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heart disease than women
Reference Sites
- UN and other international NGO
- Non-Profits website for the observance