When is International Men's Day? Origin & Meaning

What is November 19th? How did International Men's Day come about? Perhaps a question that leaves many puzzled. In reality, there are even those who are unaware of this special day dedicated to honoring half of the world. If you are among them, let's explore how this day was formed and its true meaning!

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When is International Men's Day?

International Men's Day is usually celebrated on November 19th each year. November 19th is endorsed by the United Nations as International Men's Day and receives enthusiastic support from male groups in the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean region.

This day is an occasion to honor the achievements and contributions of men to society in general, as well as in marriage, family, and childcare specifically. The main purpose of International Men's Day on November 19th is to focus on men's and boys' health, strengthen relationships, promote gender equality, and highlight the role of men.

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In the statement by the event's founder on their website, Dr. Jerome stated:

“International Men's Day has a theme and concept designed to bring hope to those who feel desperate, eliminate prejudices, and create a more sharing humanity.”

How did International Men's Day originate?

It can be said that the initiator and founder of International Men's Day, also known as November 19th, is Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, organized for the first time in 1999. He specialized in history at the University of Trinidad and Tobago in the West Indies.

Dr. Jerome chose November 19th each year as a special day to honor his father. He also suggested that people use this day to express gratitude and raise awareness about issues affecting men and boys. This idea was quickly accepted and applied in many different countries.

However, some websites dedicated to International Men's Day  argue that the demand for a day dedicated to the 'stronger sex' with the idea of dedicating a day specifically to men, similar to International Women's Day held on March 8, may have originated in the 1960s.

Thanks to the connection and spread between countries, International Men's Day quickly became popular and widespread in many countries and regions. Especially in the Latin American and Caribbean regions, this special day received warm support and resonance from the people.

The significance of International Men's Day 19/11

The image of a strong, rugged man is a heavy and imposed stereotype on many boys from an early age. This is reflected in many sayings such as 'men should not be weak, vulnerable', 'men should not cry'. These sayings have existed throughout history and are beliefs in many regions, many different cultures worldwide. Because of these rigid beliefs, men, sons sometimes have to always appear strong, tough, hiding their true emotions.

In addition, the psychology and personality of men are also greatly influenced by socio-economic conditions, gender identity, ethnicity, and nationality. Many young men living in the UK, the US, Australia, Russia, and some other countries have had to endure a lot of pressure in life and have distorted perceptions and gender biases leading to suicide. This is considered a leading cause of death in men under 45 (according to a study by the World Health Organization - WHO).

Therefore, International Men's Day on November 19th every year is noted as a special day to promote awareness of men's health issues. In addition, International Men's Day also focuses on mental health, suicide prevention, and provides knowledge for men on reproductive health issues.

Is International Men's Day as important as International Women's Day?

Many people often raise the question of whether International Men's Day on November 19th is more important than International Women's Day. This is considered a somewhat unclear comparative viewpoint, even related to gender issues and gender equality to some extent. In fact, whether it is International Men's Day or International Women's Day, they are not created for the purpose of competing with each other. These days are created to encourage men to live a valuable life, focus more on their health, and be more open in communication.

Discussions about a day dedicated to men began in the 1960s. The content of these discussions mainly aims to honor the achievements that men have made and contributed to society and happiness in their lives.

In addition, men can also be victims of domestic violence. In today's society, we often refer to gender equality issues. Especially, our common trend often assumes that women are the victims in gender issues, and men are the perpetrators. Because this thinking pattern always exists in the subconscious of the majority, health organizations and communities always focus on finding solutions to help women and girls, forgetting that men and boys can also be victims of this issue.

A study conducted on over 1000 married men aged 21 to 49 in a rural area of India in 2019 showed that 51.5% of men there faced domestic violence.

In Vietnam, International Men's Day may be a relatively new concept. Many people even express doubt about the existence of this day when asked. However, in recent years, as this movement has spread to Asian countries, many individuals, agencies, and organizations remember this day and there are many commemorative activities to express gratitude to men.

Statistics on International Men's Days in the Coming Years

International Men's Day is designated on November 19th each year. This is an occasion to honor the great contributions of men in various cultural and social fields throughout history. At the same time, the event also includes many meaningful activities, promoting the development of men in the modern era. Below is the statistics on International Men's Days in the coming years for your reference.

• International Men's Day in 2022 falls on Saturday, November 19, 2022
• International Men's Day in 2023 falls on Sunday, November 19, 2023
• International Men's Day in 2024 falls on Tuesday, November 19, 2024
• International Men's Day in 2025 falls on Wednesday, November 19, 2025
• International Men's Day in 2026 falls on Thursday, November 19, 2026

Special Days in November 2023

In addition to International Men's Day on 19/11, there are many other significant celebrations taking place in November. Check them out below:

• Vietnamese Teachers' Day: A day to honor the dedication of teachers who have contributed significantly to educating the youth and fostering talent for the country. November 20th is a nationwide celebration to express gratitude for their immense contributions.
• Vietnamese Law Day: November 9th is designated to honor the legal system because on this day in 1946, the first Constitution of Vietnam was adopted. It is a day to recognize and promote awareness of compliance with the law and the rights of the people within Vietnam's legal framework.
• Establishment Day of the Vietnam Red Cross Society: November 23rd, founded by the revered President Ho Chi Minh. This day is celebrated to commemorate the establishment and the organization's contributions to rescue and support the community.

Above are some details about the origin and significance of International Men's Day on November 19th. You can refer to how this special day came into existence and its meaning. On this occasion, consider giving a small gift or expressing gratitude to the exemplary men in your family!