We can all take part in this day by encouraging men to come out of their bladders; we thank the men in our lives who have helped us achieve our goals; help break stereotypes and identify positive role models who are the true qualities of masculinity: kindness, generosity, inner strength, empathy and open communication.
It is important to understand that a man or woman standing for one thing may not necessarily be against another.
This day is not about competing with International Women’s Day, but a way for men to encourage boys to live a life of true values, character and responsibility.
One of the biggest goals of International Men’s Day is to promote gender equality and improve gender relations. In keeping with the idea that International Men’s Day is not meant to compete with International Women’s Day (in March), the theme of the day in 2021 was ‘Better Relationships for Men and Women’ promoting the benefits of healthy gender relationships.
Only when men and women walk together against inequality will we have a better and safer world to live in.
It is important to understand the differences between men and women and cater to their special needs. It is worth noting that IMD and IWD can be celebrated by men and women together to raise awareness and contribute to the collective well-being of both and educate other people about these issues.
Mahatma Gandhi said, “We must become the change we seek.” Only when all of us, men and women, lead by example will we create a just and safe society that gives everyone the opportunity to thrive.
We live in a world where every individual has the right to address their own issues.
Happy International Men’s Day!
We care.
[Tasneem Hossain is a multilingual poet, columnist, op-ed and fiction writer, translator and training consultant. She is the Director of Continuing Education Centre, Bangladesh.]
