A BRIEF WORD ON "DISCOURSE"

The concept of "discourse" is very helpful in understanding why men must resist negative stereotypes of their gender imposed by those with a negative mind-set. Discourse is a term that is often used synonymously with "ideology". However, it is much more than this, and is a central concept in trying to make sense of the contested area of understanding gender. One fairly precise definition of discourse is:

"A body of ideas, concepts and beliefs which become established as knowledge or as an accepted world view. These ideas become a powerful framework for understanding and action in social life".

                                                                                                                          Bilton et al, 1996, p. 657

 Foucault is generally seen as being the theorist who has best articulated the idea of discourse, and he provides many examples to illustrate its nature and power. One example is his discussion on the discourse of "madness" (Foucault, 1967) which indicates how the understanding of madness changed over centuries. A "madman" during the middle ages was perceived as someone blessed by God, or under the influence of Satan. Earlier this century the discourse on madness has come under the control of a medical "lens", so that it was often seen as a biological failing involving either genetics or nerochemicals. This has progressed to a point where we now see "madness" as an interaction between biology, experience and social context. Of primary importance is that these understandings then lead to social attitudes and shape social action – such as practicing exorcisms, burning people, locking them away, or giving them drugs. Of course, discourses vary across cultures as well as time, and even vary within cultures. A comment was made at this conference that seeing visions and hearing voices need not constitute madness in aboriginal cultures, as is also the case in a number of other cultures. Thus, the social actions in response to a person’s "madness" will vary. 

Discourses exist in relation to all facets of life – there are discourses around the social enterprise of education, on crime and punishment, and of course, on the nature of masculinities. These discourses are not just "a bunch of words" – they determine our social responses. A discourse does not represent what is "real" - it actually produces what we come to understand as real. It determines what can be said, and even what can be thought. It gives us the words and conceptual frameworks by which we attempt to understand ourselves and our experiences, as well as the world "out there". Thus, the concept of discourse recognises the very real ways in which words, and hence understandings, will shape the social lives of men and boys. Discourse, as a concept, stresses the power of an understanding to shape the creation and sustenance of political decisions, policies, social norms, practices and institutions. Foucault was concerned not with simply the origin of discourses, but their implications - their power effects and the types of knowledge they produce and institutionalize (Ramazanoglu, 1993:19-20). For example, the dominant (or hegemonic) discourse around crime not only provides a framework for explaining why people commit crimes, but also determines whether we execute criminals or attempt to rehabilitate them. 

DISCOURSE AND GENDER

In regard to the question of gender and discourse, we need to identify the discourses around the nature of males in our society, and look for the power effects, or implications, of these discourses – for it is these discourses that will determine the social and political responses to men’s and boys’ health needs.

Various discourses about what constitutes "woman" and "man" have appeared over time. In European cultures, the Victorian era’s dominant discourse on women saw them as weak creatures, subject to control by their emotions and reproductive biology. The power effects of this discourse led to social practices, and even legislation, concerning the appropriate occupations and roles of women, and it limited their opportunities to participate in the public sphere of social life. Men, on the other hand, were in this period seen as unable to provide the nurturing required by children, rather as the disciplinarians and provider’s of their family’s material needs. Thus, the power effects of this gender discourse on men resulted in their being largely excluded from the sphere of private life.

Discourses regarding men and women still differ today. This was exemplified in a presentation by an earlier speaker, who noted that young women smoke to control body weight so as to attain a socially defined "attractive" body shape. It was claimed that young men smoke because they see it as a "manly" thing to do. If we deconstruct this statement, we can see that there is an underlying discourse - women are perceived as being subject to outside influences (to their detriment) - that they lack "agency", the power to initiate actions in their own lives - they are largely victims of external

forces. Men, however, are seen as having power to choose, as being agents for their own actions, so that men smoke to create a persona. The result (power effects) of this type of discourse, which is common in many areas of men’s and women’s health, is that we attempt to change environments for women (by reducing the emphasis on thin bodies), but tell men to change themselves (by stopping smoking). We locate women’s health challenges outside of themselves, but the challenges to men’s health we see as arising within the men themselves (or in the abstracted men of "masculinities").

CHALLENGING THE DOMINANT DISCOURSE

This hegemonic, or dominant, discourse on men is most apparent in (and mostly generated by) mass media. When the word "men" appears in the media, it is often in relation to some negative attribute – men as rapists, sexual harassers & abusers, practitioners of violence, unfeeling (or at least out of touch with feelings), and concerned only with power and control. These media images focus on the aberrant behaviours, and at times even pathologies, of a few men who do damage to others, and are themselves often quite damaged. 

Of course some men do practice horrific behaviours such as sexual abuse, but this fact is then used contrary to all the protocols of evidential research to blame this behaviour largely on the gender of the perpetrator. If it were true that gender is the underlying causative factor in sexual abuse, then one would expect that a majority of men must practice this. But I have yet to see any attempt at trying to identify what number of men practice this behaviour. I suspect that were such research not avoided, it would find that an extremely small proportion of the male gender chooses to harm children or women for their own sexual gratification. And if it is a small number, then the causative factor cannot be "masculinity" – it may be a necessary condition in cases of sexual abuse, but it is not a sufficient condition. As such, gender cannot be the causative factor.

From literature on perpetrators, I would suggest that pathology of the individual psyche, arising largely from aberrant experiences, led to these aberrant behaviours. And the same arguments apply to other areas in which men are demonised, such as domestic violence. Media articles and surveys indicate a massive number of female victims of DV, as much as 1 in 4, which is then used to imply that there are a similarly massive number of male perpetrators. The failure to provide evidence of the numbers of perpetrators leaves me with no option but to reject this insulting contention – that it is my gender, my male being, that underlies violence against women and children. Blaming these behaviours primarily on the gender of the perpetrator reinforces the myths and negative discourse of men as monsters, and really does not help to address the problem adequately. Such a negative discourse is not only unhelpful for individual men and boys, but also allows for neglect of their needs as scarce resources are diverted to "perpetrator" programs, under the guise that these programs are somehow for the benefit of men as a whole. I do not wish to see perpetrators or sexual abuse or domestic violence refused treatment – I just do want to ensure that this is clearly seen for what it is - treatment for a psycho-pathology, not as an aspect of gender and health.

There are of course alternative, if somewhat marginal, discourses that see men as admirable and as providing care and support for their families and communities, often at great cost to themselves. These alternative discourses draw attention to what is admirable in men, and provide a sense of direction for young men, and criteria against which we can assess ourselves - our relationships and our behaviour - without the burden of guilt involved in the hegemonic negative discourse. Attention to the positive can encourage young men to feel proud, rather than ashamed, of the accident of birth that provided them with a Y chromosome. As one’s gender is central to identity, positive perceptions of maleness are needed to help young men feel that they are valued, and that they do belong to our society. The hegemonic discourse of the "flawed male" can only lead to the experience of social exclusion for many young men, an experience that is known to lead to disastrous consequences for the well-being of individuals and communities. Perhaps we need to draw attention to the fact that some of the most admirable public figures of this century - Mahatma Ghandi, Nelson Mandela, Xanana Gusmao, Pablo Picasso, Albert Namatjira, Yehudi Menuhin and others - are men. Perhaps we also need to note that 99% of those receiving awards for bravery in civic life in Australia this year (1999) are men, and they were acknowledged for engaging in "risk-taking" behaviours that saved the lives of others.

There is obviously a need to construct a positive discourse on men and the nature of masculinities. And even more importantly, we do need to ensure that this blind alley of social theorising does not prevent efforts to improve the health of men.

 http://hathor.instanthosting.com.au/~mhirc//files/Discourse_masculinities.pdf - 20/09/2002

Jason Thompson: I'd like to take this opportunity to ask you a few questions about men and about International Men's Day so that people may better understand your rationale for creating this day.

Part of your rationale for creating International Men's Day is to provide a platform whereby society can highlight examples of men who are honorable, reliable and are oriented to the betterment of community and family. Indeed we could say these aims would constitute a betterment of oneself. This goal is welcomed by people who feel jaded by constant media portrayals of men behaving badly. Have you received feedback about how readily these positive role models have been welcomed, and also what benefit this reception might have for society as a whole?    

Dr. Teelucksingh: We must be mindful that change will not occur immediately. I see IMD as the beginning of a long journey of healing. The entire society will benefit from a more understanding and caring son, father or husband. During the past decade, persons who have observed IMD were sowing seeds of acceptance, tolerance and peace. In 2009 those seeds finally grew into sturdy plants. The next generation of men and women must nurture these plants and ensure they continue to blossom and bear fruit.
   I have been receiving telephone calls, letters and emails from men and women indicating that they are glad that positive male role models are finally being highlighted. Some persons have wished that soldiers and countries at war would stop fighting for one day –IMD. Others believe that prisoners in jail would reflect on their wrongdoings on IMD and do soul-searching and ask for forgiveness. One woman from Africa, in 2008, asked that I remember her son who was mentally challenged.  It is these ‘forgotten’ persons, the emotionally and mentally imprisoned, who should also be included in IMD.

Jason Thompson: When Barack Obama was promoting his election campaign he stressed his desire to overcome divisions and unite Democrats, independents, Republicans, young, old, rich, poor, white, black, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled because, he states, "one thing I know, from traveling 46 states this campaign season, is that we are not as divided as our politics suggest." Is your vision of International Men's Day likewise open to all men and women to participate?

Dr. Teelucksingh: IMD is open for everyone. Once we begin to exclude others the men’s movement will return to its fragmented state and IMD will become stunted. A few years ago an elderly man asked me if IMD was only for perfect persons who are blameless and faultless. I simply replied, “Then I am not worthy to be part of IMD because I have many faults.” Once we can acknowledge our shortcomings then we can find solutions and be on that path for wholeness. I am always wary of the promises of politicians during their campaigns. They preach unity and have grandiose ideas merely to win votes. However, after attaining power they conveniently forget their promises and ignore divisions. An overwhelming majority of the world’s leaders are men. So it is hoped that IMD will touch the lives of political leaders and transform their values and outlook. Thus, IMD has the potential to enter the political arena and promote good governance, eliminate discrimination and allow for equitable distribution of resources.

Jason Thompson: An Australian sociologist has posed a theory that IMD is a desire by men to mimic or imitate International Women's Day which he disparages as a self-centered "Me-Too-ism". This is clearly an erroneous view when one realizes that IWD and IMD promote different aims both in their stated objectives and in practical observations, though perhaps the objectives occasionally intersect on points such as the promoting of equality. Unlike IWD which focuses heavily on women's emancipation from oppression, IMD seems predominately focused on celebrating and promoting positive male role models and other issues unique to men's experiences. Would you consider this to be an accurate view, and could you explain a little more about the differences between the two days?

Dr. Teelucksingh: IMD was not merely included on calendars to correct a gender imbalance. IMD has a deeper meaning. The day is designed to create solidarity among males and bridge the gender gap. IMD is unique because women have promoted this day and willingly participated in IMD activities. The success of IMD is the fact that women’s groups have welcomed this day. Probably in the future the approach of IMD could be adopted or modified by IWD. Both days strengthen and empower men and women, but we must not allow women to portray men as the ‘enemy’ and vice versa. The long gender war must come to an end. There has been too much sadness, single-parent families due to divorces and too many victims.

Jason Thompson: Among your IMD Objectives you allude to the media focus on sportsmen as perhaps too narrow an image for exemplifying the myriad of roles men are required to play. I take you to mean that men cannot get through a hard day's work by the use of a football, nor cook a family meal with a cricket bat, i.e. that we need role models for the workplace, home, family care, service to society, marriage, schooling, responsible socializing and so on. While we can agree that team sports teach excellent teamwork skills that can be utilized in other areas of life, what effect do you think it has on boys and men who have only sportsmen and the competitive sports attitude to guide them through community, work and family relationships?

Dr. Teelucksingh: If only sportsmen are role models and this ‘sports attitude’ exists then there will not be the holistic and balanced development of boys and men. Secondly, boys and men with other talents or who are living decent lives would be ignored. Even more dangerous is the situation when these sporting icons fail. During the past few years some disgraced athletes have been found to use steroids. The most recent example of this fall from grace is the revelation that Tiger Woods, the golfing legend, had extramarital affairs. What would be the effect on those who admired and respected these sporting heroes?
   The competitive sports attitude may also negatively impact on work and family life if it leads some people to believe they must always be ‘winners’ who achieve more than other family members or co-workers. Such an attitude could be an obstacle for projects which require teamwork and building a network of support systems.
   But it is important to put these few concerns in context and say that sport should not be condemned because it has the potential to encourage friendships, teamwork, physical health, bonding between fathers and sons, and promote excellence among athletes. Sport should be encouraged as one of many life-enhancing roles.

Jason Thompson: You mention the practice of stereotyping as something that the concept and themes of IMD are designed to eliminate. What in your view are some of the problems stereotyping creates, and do you feel there are certain aspects of men's potential, or indeed certain kinds of men who are routinely marginalized by this practice? 

Dr. Teelucksingh: Some of the problems created by stereotyping is that it creates a significant amount of emotional and physical stress for men.  For example, there might be male teenagers who like cooking and could become great chefs but their fathers discouraged them from cooking because that culture believed that women are to cook and prepare the meals. Or suppose society expects men to be breadwinners in the family and a father become unemployed then this creates undue pressure on him to maybe seek illegal means to support his family. The media images of violent men have unfortunately contributed to the stereotyping of men. 

Jason Thompson: This year 2009 saw equal numbers of women organizing and participating in IMD events. I'm thinking now of Marie Clarence who inaugurated IMD in Hungary; women and their organisations in South Africa; Lana Chikhladze who organized a celebration in Georgia; Diane Sears who is the main promoter of the event in the U.S.A; Uma Challa who with the help of women's organisations such as All India Forgotten Women Hyderabad, Mothers And Sisters Initiative Delhi, and All India Mother In Law Protection Forum Nagpur organized and sponsored several events which led to the whole of India becoming aware of IMD. And of course we can't leave out the University of Kent women who in the U.K. last year conceived and held a charity IMD event to raise money for men's cancers. There were also numerous female attendees at many of the events and the interest from women has been to me a pleasant surprise. Have women been receptive and involved in IMD from the start, or is this a new development?

Dr. Teelucksingh: Yes, from the start women have been involved. If you look at the photo of the first IMD in Trinidad you will see a woman in the audience. I believe that women across the world will soon understand that IMD will create better husbands and fathers. Many women have realized that IMD is not about female–bashing or condemning womanhood.

Jason Thompson: I'm sure many people may be curious about the organizational structure of IMD. In 2008 a group of international coordinators formed the first steering committee (yourself, Diane Sears, Uma Challa, Warwick Marsh, and myself) in order to disseminate information and assist in the organisation of world IMD observations. Regardless of this committee's existence my understanding is that no single individual or group holds unique rights to nor ownership of IMD, except perhaps yourself who as the founder of the event holds a special understanding of it's original and continuing goals. For the record can you confirm if the above conclusion is the prevailing one in your view i.e. that IMD belongs equally to everyone (or no one) and that any individual may start their own IMD event or committee without permission from a governing body- provided they adhere to the stated Objectives of IMD?  

Dr. Teelucksingh: Yes I agree that nobody has a monopoly over IMD. Yes, anyone could observe IMD without seeking permission but they should follow the 6 pillars of IMD. Upon these 6 pillars the men’s movement has the opportunity to build a powerful movement for positive social change. I could be considered the founder of this version of IMD on 19 November but we need to also acknowledge the pioneering efforts of persons and groups before 1999 who attempted to formulate a day for men. My role is marginal and I should not be the focus. The real heroes and heroines are the humble persons around the globe who have promoted IMD and demonstrated dedication and sacrifice for the past decade. They are the ones to be honoured. The steering committee of 2008 proved to be a powerful catalyst which contributed to the rapid spread of IMD.   

Jason Thompson: Lastly is a question on spirituality which you have included at the end of objective #3 'To focus on men's health and wellbeing; social, emotional, physical and spiritual'. I was interested to read about the variety of religious organisations on the guest lists at your IMD observations in 2001 and 2002 which included representatives from the Raja Yoga Centre, Mormon Church, Pentecostal Church, Bahia faith, Kabir Panth, Californian Hindu Temple, Divine Life Society, and so on. This sets a good precedent for inclusiveness. On that basis I'm assuming by ‘spiritual’ you are not referring to a particular religious belief but rather to a subjective sense of wellbeing that comes from being able to freely practice one's chosen form of spirituality, however one might define it. Is this the kind of way you might define spiritual health, or do you have an alternative definition? 

Dr. Teelucksingh: Yes, the sense of well-being refers to ‘spirituality’. There are persons who do not believe in God or a Creator as the mainstream religions (Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism and Islam) but believe in a spiritual life-force. IMD was never meant to directly challenge the religious doctrines, condemn religious texts or cultural practices. The inclusion of the word ‘spirituality’ is again another effort to demonstrate that IMD is inclusive and not designed to exclude persons who have a different belief system.

Jason Thompson: What are the challenges facing IMD

[1] Temma Kaplan, On the Socialist Origins of International Women's Day, in: Feminist Studies, 11, 1985, S. 163-171. (PDF)

[2] Liliane Kandel / Françoise Picq, Le Mythe des origines à propos de la journée internationale des femmes, in: La Revue d'en face, 12, 1982, S. 67-80.]

[3] Lindsey German, Theories of Patriarchy in International Socialism second series no 12. 1981. (reprint)

[4] Timelines 1900-2010: Increased interest in IWD correlates with the emergence of ‘patriarchy theory’.

[5] Sandra Bloodworth, The Poverty of Patriarchy Theory Originally published in Socialist Review (Australian), Issue 2, Winter 1990, pp. 5-33. (DOC)

A “TEACHABLE MOMENT” ON MEN’S ISSUES

          During the course of the past 12 months, several incidents have become the lead stories for American newspapers, television news programs, radio and television talk shows, and blogs and social media networks on the Internet and the catalyst for a fascinating national discussion on “teachable moments”.  As the United States Coordinator for 2010 International Men’s Day (www.international-mens-day.com), I assist Regional Coordinators in their efforts to facilitate events and engage organizations and individuals throughout the nation in dialogues about the event which will be observed worldwide on Friday, 19 November 2010 under the theme “Our Children . . . Our Future”.  The enthusiasm for and response to International Men’s Day in the United States has been and continues to be overwhelmingly positive. Hawaii, Illinois, California, Virginia, New York, Pennsylvania, and Florida are a sample of the states that have Regional Coordinators for 2010 International Men’s Day. Critics of International Men’s Day have been few and the minor criticisms only help to reinforce the view that this worldwide observance provides a “teachable moment” on Men’s issues.  As an example, several critics of International Men’s Day offered the following sentiments:

•   “I’m trying to understand why the celebration of International Men’s Day would become necessary in the context of increasing global tensions between men and women, which spills over into violence across the board, and all the more pressing issues of gender equality.”

•   “Given the global power of patriarchy, given the need for more productive avenues of collaboration with women, given the economic, and political issues that divide men, is the observance of International Men’s Day a necessity?”

•   “Men of different races and cultural backgrounds are presumed to have different relationships to Fatherhood and family.  We all know the stereotypes, so we cannot assume that all men experience the same level of alienation from family and are therefore in need of recognition of their contributions.”  

•   “Which men are we talking about -- rich men or poor men, black, brown, Indian, men in the Global South or white men in advanced capitalist countries? Men of different races and cultural backgrounds are presumed to have different relationships to fatherhood and family.  We all know the stereotypes, so we cannot assume that all men experience the same level of alienation from family and are therefore in need of recognition of their contributions. How does this advance the cause of gender equality, when such a development can so easily be interpreted by women as an attempt to liken the challenges facing men with the challenges which faced women on that fateful day of labor struggle of female garment workers in New York in 1857, and the subsequent march in honor of these women in 1908, which gave rise to International Women's Day?”

               The critics of International Men’s Day present excellent questions and interesting observations. One observation, the need for more productive avenues of collaboration between men and women, has merit.   As a woman who has worked on Fatherhood and Men's Issues since 1999; presented an academic paper on the Fatherhood Movement at the 97th National Conference of the Eastern Communications Association in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in April 2006; and interviewed and engaged in dialogues with Men from all Walks of Life throughout our global village,  I see International Men's Day – a global grassroots movement -- as a key vehicle to providing avenues of collaboration between Men and Women and moving Men and Women to a place of compassion and understanding. The worldwide observance of International Men’s Day resonates with Women and Men. As an example, in the United States, the Regional Coordinators for New York and Virginia are women. As a further example, the Coordinators for the nations of Hungary and India are also women.   I share the view of Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, the Founder of International Men’s Day and the Chairman of the International Men’s Day Coordination Committee, that a day which celebrates the contributions and selfless sacrifices that Men make to our families, communities, and our society has the potential to bring healing to our communities and to our world.  Yes, there are issues that divide Men and Women.  There will always be issues and conflicts.  But we are all duty bound to overcome and rise above our environment -- an environment, for example, in which issues and conflicts exist.  International Men's Day is our opportunity to overcome and rise above our environment and transcend the boundaries, conflicts, and issues that divide us. 

          While I feel it is counterproductive to engage in a debate concerning what critics of International Men’s Day describe as “the global power of patriarchy”, I will say that, contrary to popular opinion, Men do not necessarily have “the world on a string”.   And since we are talking about Men, let’s really talk about Men.  Many of the Men that I have interviewed during the past 11 years have told me that they are not getting what they need and want. What do Men need and want? As an example, more health and medical resources and support services and greater access to them! In the United States, women are outliving men by 5 to 7 years.  Why?  Because of the rising incidences of prostate cancer, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and Alzheimer's Disease among men.   It is estimated that 1 in every 10 American men will be diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease by his 55th birthday (approximately 5,000,000 Americans have Alzheimer's Disease).   Approximately 2 million men have been diagnosed with prostate cancer and 9% of all cancer-related deaths in men is attributed to prostate cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 6 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime and prostate cancer accounts for approximately 9% of all cancer-related deaths in men.    Approximately 22.1% of American Men have coronary heart disease, while approximately, 10.9 million American Men or 10.5% of all American men who are over the age of 20 are estimated to have diabetes.  

           The critical state of affairs for Men’s Health in the United States has moved legislators, health care professionals, Fatherhood Advocates, Fatherhood Practitioners, and concerned individuals to form a coalition and push for legislation which would establish an Office of Men’s Health in the United States Department of Health and Human Service. In 2001, United States Congressman Randy Cunningham of California (R-San Diego) and United States Congressman James McDermott of Washington State (D-Washington) first introduced into Congress the Men’s Health Act (“The Men’s Health Act”) as legislation which would establish an Office of Men’s Health within the United States Department of Health and Human Services and promote men’s health in the United States. In 2007, H.R. 789, the Office of Men’s Health Act Of 2007, was introduced in the 110th Congress. The last known “major action taken” in connection with H.R. 789 has been reported as occurring on 2 February 2007, at which time the legislation was “referred to the House Subcommittee and referred to the Subcommittee on Health” (see Washingtonwatch.com at http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/110_HR_ 789. html).   In 2009, efforts to establish an Office of Men’s Health within the United States Department of Health and Human Services continued.   On 27 April 2009, United States Congressmen Baron P. Hill (D-Indiana)and Timothy "Tim" Murphy (R-Pennsylvania) introduced into the 111th Congress of the United States H.R. 2115 Men and Families Health Care Act (“H.R. 2115”). H.R. 2115 whichis also co-sponsored by United States Congressman Frank LoBiondo (R-New Jersey) was referred to the House Of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce on 27 April 2009.  To date, this Committee has not yet taken further action on H.R. 2115.

          The critics of International Men’s Day take the position that racial and cultural backgrounds are presumed to create different Fatherhood and family relationships and that an assumption cannot be made that “all men experience the same level of alienation from family and are therefore in need of recognition”.   The discoveries that I have made as a result of my work on Fatherhood and Men’s Issues paint an entirely different picture. Men whom I have interviewed and engaged in discussions about parenting and family relationships throughout the United States and in Canada, Ghana, South Africa, Argentina, Germany, the United Kingdom, The Netherlands, France, Italy, and Greece express the same dreams and hopes for their children – their future – their bridge to the future.  They want their children to have a better life when they reach adulthood.  They want their children to inherit a better and safer world.   These Men place their own dreams on hold so that their children will have the freedom to dream dreams and take advantage of economic and educational opportunities which were not within their reach. Rich men, poor men, working class men, and middle-class men who live and work in our cities, rural districts, farmlands, villages, townships, hamlets, and subdivisions are-examining and redefining their parental roles as they experience the same challenges and joys of positively shaping the minds and souls of their children – their future – their bridge to the future. Fatherhood truly transcends the boundaries of geography, language, politics, culture, religion, economics, and ethnicity.

           A percentage of the Men from all Walks of Life throughout our global village who have talked to me about Fatherhood and family relationships are Divorced and Non-Custodial Fathers. For these Men who only have an opportunity to spend two weekends out of each month with their children, the alienation – which has been termed parental alienation syndrome – is very real.  In their argument, critics of International Men’s Day allude to stereotypes. Are they speaking of the subliminal negative male stereotyping and mixed signals about masculinity and manhood which seeps into some of our television commercials, situation comedies, and dramas? International Men’s Day provides a welcome antidote to the mixed signals about manhood and masculinity, disrespect, and lack of recognition that many Men throughout our global village encounter. 

         Critics of International Men’s Day want to know “which men” are being talked about. Is International Men’s Day talking about Rich Men?  Poor Men? Black Men? Brown Men? Indian Men?  Men in the Global South? White Men in advanced capitalist countries? International Men’s Day speaks to all Men – Rich Men, Poor Men, Working Class Men, Homeless Men, Middle-Class Men, Black Men, Brown Men, Indian Men, Asian Men, Aboriginal Men, Men in the Global South, Men in Third World countries, White Men in advanced capitalist countries – and the women who love them.

         If we are serious about creating a better and safer world for our children, Men and Women must work together in a collaborative spirit and move with all deliberate speed to get to a place of compassion and understanding.   The good news is that International Men’s Day is the vehicle that will get us there.

Men and women across the world will be celebrating International Men’s Day on Thursday, 19 November 2009.   International Men’s Day was celebrated for the first time in Trinidad and Tobago on 19 November 1999.

India celebrated International Men’s Day for the first time in the year 2007. This year, India celebrates International Men’s Day for the third time along with Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Australia, United States, Singapore, United Kingdom, Malta, South Africa, Georgia, New Zealand, Moldova, Germany, Holland and Brazil and other nations around the globe.

Men’s and fathers’ rights groups across the country are planning activities on International Men’s Day 2009 to recognize and honor the selfless sacrifices of men and to celebrate men’s invaluable contributions to families, communities, and society. On this occasion, bike and car rallies will be conducted in all major cities in the country like Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, Lucknow, Nagpur and Delhi, to reach out to the public and encourage them to celebrate this day.

International Men’s Day is a call for international collaboration to address the challenges and problems men face; for improving gender relations between men and women; for promoting gender equality; and for highlighting positive male role models.

Problems men face:

Every day, men face many of the same problems that women do. These include physical and emotional health issues, work related stress, financial difficulties, problems with family and relationships, and more serious problems like domestic violence, harassment at workplace and sexual abuse. In addition, they suffer legal harassment, financial abuse and forced separation from children through women-centric laws.

Men are conditioned to stifle their emotions and endure pain without complaining. Men hesitate to express themselves for the fear of being ridiculed or discredited. International Men’s Day is an occasion to remind ourselves that men are human, that they experience pain, emotions and tears, and that they deserve our love, care, protection and support every day.

Improving gender relations:

For the last several decades, governments across the world and society tacitly approved the propagation of anti-male sentiments, condoned the resultant diminution in value of men’s lives and supported blatant violation of men’s rights through discriminatory laws and policies, all in the name of women’s rights and empowerment.

This has resulted in a gender war, and led to a steep rise in divorce rates, number of fatherless children, violence against men and number of men ending their own lives. International Men’s Day is an occasion to remind everyone of the need to restore stability in the society by promoting harmony between men and women.

Promoting gender equality:

Women’s empowerment and gender equality are two oft-repeated phrases today. It is sad enough that there are many who take great pride in wearing these labels while remaining completely oblivious of their true import. What is worse is that radical women’s groups and vested interests have successfully subverted the real meaning and purpose of women’s empowerment and gender equality, and are promoting discrimination, injustice and serious human rights abuses in the name of gender equality.

Domestic and social harmony will prevail only when women AND men are ensured their rightful, honorable place within and outside the home. International Men’s Day is an occasion to commit ourselves to ensure true gender equality in the society and under law, so that gender relations are improved, litigations are reduced, legal terrorism and extortion through misuse of the law is eliminated, and our human and financial resources can be employed to ensure a better society for ourselves and future generations.

Highlighting positive male role models:

It is commonplace to idolize movie stars and athletes as role models everywhere in the world. While being overzealous about celebrating and honoring famous personalities, we tend to ignore that every day,

•    Men render many services that make the society comfortable for everyone.
•    Men make many contributions to science, technology and health of all.
•    Men perform the most dangerous and difficult jobs in the world.
•    Men take risks and die to save other lives during calamities and war.
•    Men bring humor into our lives and make us laugh.

International Men’s Day is an occasion to highlight and promote positive role models in all walks of life. It is a day to remind ourselves to honor all men – academic achievers, social leaders,  champions of the environment, artists, comedians, soldiers, farmers, fishermen, fire fighters,  and those more humble males who, on a daily basis, clean our streets, build our houses, fix our vehicles, police our streets, deliver newspapers and milk, care for children, and dedicate themselves to others. It is a day to remember that we must celebrate all men in our lives – our fathers, brothers, partners, sons, male friends, neighbors and colleagues.

On this great and joyous occasion, we request all members of the print and electronic media to join us in spreading our message to the entire world.

Organizations observing International Men’s Day in India:

All India Forgotten Women, Andhra Pradesh Mothers-in-law Protection Association, Mothers and Sisters Initiative, Children’s Rights Initiative for Shared Parenting, All India Men’s Welfare Association, Gender Human Rights Society, Save Indian Family Foundation, Pati Parivar Kalyan Samiti, Save Family Foundation, Save Family Harmony Foundation, Bhavya Foundation, Rishtey, All India Mothers-in-law Protection Association and Hridaya Foundation.

How to promote and observe International Men’s Day

by  J. Teelucksingh (April 2010)

My early efforts at observing and promoting International Men’s Day were not successful. There was a disappointing public response as the first observances attracted only 5 to 10 persons. And, most of the times, members of my family comprised half the audience! The government and private businesses in my country were not interested in International Men’s Day. So, I had to use personal expenses to print invitations, place newspaper advertisements, rent venues and purchase refreshments. These early efforts seemed as failures and I wanted to stop the observances and forget the entire concept of International Men’s Day.  Additionally, some persons felt a day for men was useless and some wondered if there was an ulterior motive to this Day. International Men’s Day has continued only because of the encouragement and support given by a global network of persons who also realized the need of having a Day which could create a better world.

During the past decade, persons abroad have been asking me- what is the best manner to observe IMD? What is the secret to effectively promote IMD? I’m probably still not the best person to give advice but I’m willing to share some thoughts that will prove helpful. 

The observance of International Men’s Day can take many different forms. Options include conferences, workshops, art, essay or poetry competitions, parades, car or bicycle rallies, public lectures or walks. Where is the best venue to attract persons? It could be anywhere and depends on your budget and target group. An observance for students could be appropriately held in a school hall. A lunch-time seminar in the office would educate co-workers. In the past, IMD observances have been held in parks, under shady trees on university campuses, in living rooms, libraries, garages, town halls and hotels. Getting the message to others is more important than the venue!

The internet is one of the most effective methods of promoting awareness of IMD. Use of Facebook, Twitter, Hi5, blogs, emails and websites have been successful. The internet has also been used to bridge the language barrier. Press releases in the local newspaper, interviews on radio stations and television appearance will certainly help educate others on the benefits of IMD observances. Get the local school or college involved.

 Who should be invited to an observance of IMD? Anyone who is interested in creating positive and lasting change should be invited. Men, women, teenagers and children will benefit from IMD. The size of the audience is not important. The more crucial issue at your IMD observance is that there is constructive dialogue and that change has occurred which would improve society. Use the opportunity to invite the mayor, governor, councilors and government officials who would be better able to promote IMD at a higher level. Probably inviting one of these officials, who you believe is a role model, can be a guest speaker at an observance of IMD. 

Some have questioned the title of ‘coordinator’ and wondered if it is an appropriate word. This is a term that has been used to identify persons who are promoting IMD in their countries across the world. These persons are volunteers who are eager to promote the 6 Objectives of IMD. If you are not interested in using this title but eager to spread the Objectives of IMD and host observances, then you are free to refer to yourself as a ‘promoter’,  ‘organizer’ or ‘supporter’. Or you might decide not to use any title! This is a minor issue that should not lead to arguments. Similarly, every year there is a designated theme for IMD but you can choose a theme that might be more relevant or applicable to your community or country. Or you might desire to use a theme for more than one year. This is also acceptable.      

There are a few major websites that document and promote IMD.  If you believe that creating a website in your language or dialect would be more effective, then feel free to use that medium. There is a logo used by most persons celebrating IMD. However, if you feel that a certain logo would attract more people from your city, village or country. For instance, a coordinator from an indigenous tribe might want to use symbols from his or her culture to better highlight the importance of IMD to other members of the tribe. One year, a creative child or teenager might want to design an International Men’s Day logo for the classroom. These are all possibilities which demonstrate the flexibility of this aspect of the Men’s movement.

Being a coordinator should not be a burdensome job or one that demands your attention for the entire year.  Create a timeline which will show when, where and how you will begin planning the observance.  The more coordinators in a country would definitely mean  less planning for you.  Contact coordinators from other countries and share ideas and seek advice. Where should you recruit these persons to serve as coordinators? Interested persons who attend the annual observance could be invited to assist as coordinators.   Maybe you might want to form a small committee and delegate persons to have fundraisers or deal with public relations.

Should the coordinators have any special qualifications? No. You do not need to undertake any special courses in leadership or management to have an observance of IMD. Both men and women could serve as coordinators. The physically challenged and the unemployed  are serving as coordinators. There are even some prisoners who are now role models and have been annually observing IMD in their jails.

The ‘qualifications’ you need include a positive attitude, a willingness to assist others, and an understanding mind. It would be against the 6 Objectives of IMD if you were to criticize and condemn others. The coordinators and supporters of IMD should not be viewed as an elite group, superior and perfect. We certainly do not have all the answers for all of the problems in the world. Supporters and coordinators of IMD should be humble, willing to work with other groups or movements that are also on this path to create a better world. This would include support of a petition to end poverty, the women’s movement or an environmental group.