On Tuesday 1st November, in the run up to International Men’s Day, The Men’s Network in Brighton & Hove is hosting the UK’s First National Conference for Men and Boys – click here for details.

On Saturday 19th November, The Men’s Network will be hosting its 2nd annual Tash Dash 5km fun run to help raise money for local projects working with men and boys - click here for details.

In November 2011, The Men’s Network is bringing together volunteers, people with learning disabilities and support services for men and boys to create a public exhibition to mark International Men’s Day in Brighton & Hove – click here for details.

On Saturday 19th November 2011 there will be a free spirituality workshop for men called The Inner Fire at The Cornerstone Community Centre in Hove – click here for details.

LONDON

The London-based charity, Working With Men, is planning a number of events targeting around 50,000 Londoners for International Men’s Day 2011. Working With Men is an award winning charity supporting positive male activity, engagement and involvement.

The ethos of Working With Men is to develop and implement support projects that benefit the development of men and boys, and to raise awareness of issues impacting upon men and boys in addition to trying to gain a greater understanding of the underlying issues behind male behaviour. Working With Men also undertakes research, offers training and consultancy services, as well as resources, to aid practitioners and agencies who work with boys and/or men. Its work includes tackling conflict and knife related incidents in schools and in the community; raising the attainment levels of boys in school; support for single mothers of boys, as well as the unemployed and homeless; programmes encouraging fathers into school to read with their children; and tackling racial violence and issues of identity among young people.

For more information contact Shane Ryan at Working With Men by calling 0207 237 5353 or 0207 394 9333 or emailing Working With Men’s CEO, Shane Ryan on S.Ryan@workingwithmen.org.
 

London based charity Working With Men is hosting an International Men’s Day concert  22nd November 2011 at London’s famous Jazz Café. There will be live performances from Jazz Jamaica and Funky DL with other artists to be confirmed. Doors open at 6.30pm and the show starts at 7.00pm.

Entry is £25 (£30 on the night) and you buy you tickets at the Jazz Cafe website or by calling one of the following numbers HMV tickets (24 hour) 0843 221 0100, Ticketmaster (24 hour) 0844 847 2514, SEE tickets (24 hour) 0870 060 3777, the restaurant – 0207 688 8899.

For a second year running, Tiemo Entertainments is hosting an International Men’s Day award ceremony in London called In Celebration of Men. This year’s event will be held at:

Venue: Bishop Creighton House, 378 Lillie Road, Fulham, London SW6 7PH
Saturday 19th November 2011, 10.00-14.00

Theme: Giving boys the best possible start in life.
Informative and enlightening Keynote speakers, Q & A, discussions and celebration of men.

Topics: Education, Entrepreneurship, Life Choices, Men’s Health & Life Expectancy and Rights of Fatherhood. The voice of youth will be heard. Parent’s do bring your children.

Keynote speakers: Dr Keith Davidson, Kenny D’Cruz, Viv Ahmun and Alison Hewitt.

£5 and £10 http://www.tiemo.co.uk

Enquiries: bookings@tiemo.co.uk / 07740-471 352

BIRMINGHAM

In 2010 LifeBuilders Erdington and LifeBuilders Handsworth both held events to celebrate International Men’s Day (IMD). Lifebuilders is a men’s ministry run by the New Testament Church of God (NTCG) and we understand they are planning to mark International Men’s Day again in 2011. Keep an eye on their website for details – click here – or call NTCG on 1604 824222 or email bigmove@ntcg.org.uk.

LifeBuilders will be marking International Men’s Day 2011 with a free screening of the film Guilty Until Proven Innocent by Janks Morton – the award-winning director of What Black Men Think. The fillm will be shown Friday 18 November from 7.30pm – 9.30pm at NTCG Handsworth, 240 – 244 Lozells Road, Birmingham B19 1NP. It’s a free event but please let them know you are coming – for more details click here – or to contact the organisers click here. 

Preston FM

Your Preston FM - a community radio station in Lancashire  - is dedicating a whole day of broadcasting to International Men’s Day (Saturday 19th November 2011). Check out the schedule below and click here  and find the Listen Live button to tune in on the day.

Music Team Meets Men’s Day: Sat, 19 November, 08:00 – 10:00
Saturday Brunch: Sat, 19 November, 10:00 – 12:00
Young Men and Criminality: Sat, 19 November, 12:00 – 13:00
African Talk Show: Sat, 19 November, 13:00 – 14:00
Up Front: Sat, 19 November, 14:00 – 15:00
Preston and Beyond: Sat, 19 November, 15:00 – 16:00
Andy Ellis: Sat, 19 November, 16:00 – 17:00
Speak Up Preston: Sat, 19 November, 17:00 – 18:00
Drum’n'Bass Sounds: Sat, 19 November, 18:00 – 19:00
Rick Scherzo: Sat, 19 November, 19:00 – 20:00
IMD Interviews: Sat, 19 November, 20:00 – 21:00 

International Men's Day at Exeter University

The Nottinghamshire Health Trust is putting on some health check drop-in sessions for staff and volunteers

Although aimed at men, in honour of International Men's Day, women are also welcome to attend

Who says ladies can’t grow a Tash?

October 2nd, 2010  § Leave a Comment

If anyone is sexist and old-fashioned enough to still believe that only men are capable of serious Tash wearing then check out these ladies whose commitment to the art of the Tash is so great – they’ve name themselves the Mustache Sisters

And remember sisters, this is the age of equality and women are really welcome to grow, draw or stick on a Tash and join us for the Tash Dash in Brighton on November 19th 2010.

A Celebration of Men Discussion for  International Men’s Day  - 19th November 2010 By Bunmi Williams International Men’s Day. What is this I hear you say? My thoughts exactly when I got the assignment for this Tiemo Talk of The Town event. International Women’s day I was aware of, but a men’s day, what a ting! My curiosity was awakened, followed by the thought, “good idea”, concluding with the feeling that actually we need more of these kinds of events for men. Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, International Men’s Day (IMD) has come a long, long way, literally to UK shores, albeit with a somewhat jetlagged appearance reflected in low awareness of the day. However, not to be deterred by this, Michael Peters from Tiemo Talk of the Town took up the challenge to get key men of influence around the table for the UK’s first ‘In Celebration of Men’ dinner and debate to mark International Men’s Day. Held on 19th November 2010 at the Hotel Ibis in Euston, attendees were treated to a wide ranging discussion of some of the key issues facing men today. The mixed panel of professionals (including women) included Investment Analyst, Michael Young, HR Manager, Beverley Green, Builder and Reach Role Model Hylton Forrester, Wendy Forrester, Michael Peters, Polish Publisher Anna Prochon and the Keynote speaker Damion Queva, Publisher of Fathers Quarterly, the only Fathers’ magazine in the UK. The stage, or should that be table, was set for an evening where men could air their views as to they see things. Damion Queva FQ Publisher Role Models One of the 5 main themes of International Men’s Day was to celebrate men as role models and much discussion ensued as to who should be celebrated. There was no gender divide on this, as the male and female participants all were clear that primary role models should stem from the home and be the parent(s), then others such as teachers, family or friends.  A point very much supported by Hylton (a Reach Role Model for young people), emphasising the importance to lead by example, a stance he naturally assumed as a father of five boys. When questioned by Damion about the pressure of this, Hylton was candid, admitting that there was pressure, but speaking in schools and churches had ‘stretched’ him and he’d experienced the transformational impact on his own life. Lack of male role models The age old issue of the lack of male role models was one raised by Michael Young; however when President Barack Obama was given as a solution to this dilemma, another one was then posed by Damion as to whether his role model status was down to his policies or inspirational value? Inspiration of course was the consensus of the table. Just look at his achievements as a man, never mind as a black man. As publisher of a man’s magazine, Damion expressed his dilemma when it came to selling his magazine i.e. unless a celebrity was seen gracing his front cover, the attraction to buy was reduced. Why should it take celebrities before people assume interest? Key political figures such as Bernie Grant, Diane Abbott, David Lammy and Apprentice star Tim Campbell and Playwright and Actor Kwame Kwei-Armah were all praised as role models. As were significant London mentoring figures Ken Barnes and Olu Alake, Founder/ Emeritus President and current President respectively, of the 100 Black Men of London mentoring organisation. Michael Young, raised an interesting point about female role models for boys being influential in spurring them on to greater success, due to female success rate in education. So could women now be another form of ‘peer’ role model for men? Wendy Forrester “Don’t forget musicians or sports figures!” trumpeted Michael Peters, “True", said Damion,"but take the recent events of Tiger Woods, should it not be his achievements we judge rather that his personal life?” Michael responded that, “Goal models might be a better way of viewing celebrity role models. This was a term coined by Dr Lez Henry and usefully allows you to focus on the skills, ability, dedication and all round qualities needed to succeed and stay at the top. These can always be admired and modelled, regardless of the personal foibles and weaknesses of anyone whose star may fall. One area that definitely needs more debate. “My role model was my dad…” interjected Wendy, as the women joined in the debate, since his kind and loving nature was what she only knew. The stereotypical notion of ‘men as dogs’ was not one she subscribed to.  Home environment   The home environment was raised by Hylton. Were men being undermined?  Was the father limiting his communication only to his spouse and neglecting the children? Poignant questions to reflect on. Ken Barnes from the 100 black men mentoring organisation had the vision of developing a generation of young black men that would be ‘worthy’ of dating and eventually marrying his daughter. This was raised in an almost championing spirit of a newly found hope, which I considered a very interesting concept. “Ironically it can be off-putting if a man is too ‘giving’” said Wendy, citing references of men who had problems with women in this arena. “Why should he change, maybe they are not the right one for him?” replied Damion. Wise viewpoint, in my opinion. Beverley Green HR Manager The issue of gender role models reappeared due to the current state of family units; boys now looked to mothers as role models due to absent fathers.  “Although not perfect, positives can be drawn from the negative.” stated Michael Young. The high incidence of suicide, men not being ‘in touch’ with their feelings child care issues and lack of solutions in the media for men’s problems  (in comparison with women’s magazines with their agony aunts) needed more debate claimed Damion. From a Polish stand point, religion is a key factor mentioned Anya. Polish people look to the Pope, in particular Polish Pope John Paul II as a role model. In terms of men showing their emotions, she said that’s to be welcomed. To see her father cry in no way belittled him in her eyes. These external societal influencers were also reiterated by Beverley, stating that we should celebrate family, Pastors et al who have contributed to society. The recent story of the father who took to ‘monitoring’ his son’s face book, so as to ensure profane language was removed, was raised and felt that it showed a father who was responsible and maybe more of this was needed? Bill Cosby, Richard Pryor, Muhammed Ali and Kwame Kwei-Armah were all named as men to be celebrated. The topic of role models was an enlightening one, which looked set to run and run but time was ticking and we had to cover more ground. International Men's Day Photograph courtesy of International Men's Day Men’s Health Starting with a female perspective, Beverley underlined that getting to the root causes was crucial in rebuilding people; the church had a strong role in the community to signpost and guide. Also, men needed to be encouraged to get checkups. Hylton felt it was a matter of education, mindset, social and spiritual upliftment on a daily basis. He mentioned a personal example of the time her informed his son about how to check for testicular cancer. He wanted to see more popular interest shown in men’s health. Discrimination Beverley raised the question whether this had really improved in the workplace as although becoming more educated and skilled; men’s equality was still an issue in regards to race. Michael Peters felt that the glass ceiling had, in many fields, been broken in terms of progress by women, with a more feminised workplace widely in existence today, in the sense of more “soft” skills being more highly valued such as communication and empathy. On an individual basis perhaps that was correct, agreed Beverley, but in the corporate world a different story existed. “That’s why I stay outside the corporate arena and choose private enterprise,” rounded off Michael Young. After an evening of hearty debate one thing is clear to me … men have ISSUES. Maybe the genders are not so different after all. So I look forward to Tiemo Talk of the Town hosting more seminars to discuss these topics again in greater detail and to hope that 19th November, International Men’s Day, becomes a key calendar date in men’s (and women’s’) diary for the future.   Written by Bunmi Williams ©Tiemo Talk of the Town No unauthorised publication or reproduction of any part of this article is permitted without the permission of Tiemo Talk of the Town First published 3rd December 2010

Tiemo's 1st In Celebration of Men Dinner  Friday 19th November 2010 6.30pm for 7pm - 10pm Hotel Ibis, 3 Cardington Street, London NW1 2LW (next to Euston station) * Click photo below for information on International Men's Day Women welcome ************* With Keynote Speaker Mr Damion Queva - Publisher of Fathers Quarterly magazine Damion has made appearances on a number of television and radio stations/shows, including BBC Breakfast, BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 5 Live, Sky News, Living TV and The Baby Channel. Further information and video links at the end of this page.   Starter Soups and salads are prepared fresh daily with something to tempt any palette, served with crusty roll and butter. Main Course Choose from a hot tempting buffet, that changes with seasons and offers a wide choice. Choose from a traditional roast, succulent meats, grilled fish, vegetarian meals and a variety of world cuisines. + Discussion, lively talk and good humour amongst diners as we mark Tiemo's Inaugural International Men's Day Celebration Dinner Dessert The perfect way to round of your meal. Choose from a tempting selection of fresh fruits and other delights - go on indulge yourself.  Eat, drink and network till late Bon appetit !   2 course buffet consisting of starter and main  meal or dessert and main meal - £15 3 course buffet consisting of starter, main meal and dessert - £20 Location Map Closest station: Euston (4 minutes walk from the station) If you wish to pre-book please email your name and names of anyone in your party to bookings@tiemo.co.uk or text them to 07960-993 169. Otherwise you may just pay on the night. Hotel Ibis  3 Cardington Street London NW1 2LW What is the purpose of International Men's Day ? ·         To promote positive male role models; not just movie stars and sports men but everyday, working class men who are living decent, honest lives.  ·         To celebrate men’s positive contributions to society, community, family, marriage, child care, and to the environment. ·         To focus on men’s health and wellbeing; social, emotional, physical and spiritual. ·         To highlight discrimination against men; in areas of social services, social attitudes and expectations, and law. ·         To improve gender relations and promote gender equality. ·         To create a safer, better world; where people can be safe and grow to reach their full potential. Link to International Men's Day website. Our keynote speaker David Queva's FQ Magazine was launched in 2003 and was the second ‘dad’ magazine to hit the UK news stands aimed at new dads and single fathers. The first issue featured David Beckham. FQ Magazine targets men whose lifestyles have changed due to having children, but are still interested in fashion, cars and gadgets. Celebrity parents have created an image of cool dads that like to lavish themselves, and families, with consumer products like designer pushchairs and designer clothes. Famous fathers including Jose Mourinho, Ewan McGregor, Will Smith, Johnny Dep, Frank Lampard and Jamie Oliver are amongst some of the fathers interviewed by the magazine. Keynote speaker Damion Queva video - Social life after having children

Sunday, 02 March 2008

Comments

"the question is should there be an International Men's Day and what day would that be?"

Posted by: Thomas Pollock | Thursday, 20 March 2008 at 23:54

While women are facing physical oppression in society, men are on the rise to be facing psychological oppression. I don't see any international day rushing to commemorate the fact that men suffer from higher suicide rates. Those are typically a direct parallel to the the higher standards men are held to.

I'm all for helping women overcome physical abuse, but every time such a topic is brought up, it becomes a direct attack against all men. Considering the higher level of social stress men are put through (ie: being told they have to be a provider or being told they have to be leaders or WHATEVER) are people really surprised that they're alleviating that stress through violence?

I'm not at all excusing men for abusing women, but it's definitely time to get past the stupid thought "All men are violent animals that just want to kill and rape" and try to figure out WHY levels of violence raise in males. It's obviously not biological because it doesn't apply to EVERY man. Modern feminists and women are really being overly spiteful toward mankind. Rather than rehabilitating society, feminists want to glorify themselves and paint the picture than men are brainless savages.

There's no equality at all and celebrating IWD isn't going to bring us any closer to equality. Instead of dedicating one day out of the year to ending violence against women... How about we just work every single day to even the playing field in society? To destroy stereotypes and bring a new, understanding order to the world. Feminism is getting out of hand. That's the main summary of my comment.

[Stop Press] In November 19 2008 the invitation was taken up by  Kent University in what we believe to be the U.K. inaguration!! (see below)

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

U.K. Inauguration 2008 !

On November 2008 an invitation went out to Kent university students to come and celebrate International Men's Day at Mungos! This event was organized and coordinated by Canterbury's Kent University student organization 'Raise and Give' (or RAG as we are better known). RAG is Kent Unions charitable arm located in the Student Activities Centre which raises thousands of pounds for charity each year! The night started at 7pm with live soccer coverage of England v Germany on the big screen, and afterwards the evening heated up with a mixture of comedy and live music from student favourites, "Clacket Lane".  There was a raffle including the chance to win some of the very latest computer games for X Box and PS3 alongside many more suprises!  There was also a guitar hero competition and an X-box tournament with the chance to win more prizes. About 300 people attended with roughly equal numbers of males and females. The event was a resounding success and all participants had a memorable celebration.

All proceeds went to ORCHID a charity for all male cancers, including prostate, penile or testicular cancer. Male attendees at International Men's Day were invited to buy a "Know Your Balls" wrist band at Mungos campus bar and get entry discounts at the Venue for afterwards. Orchid plays a leading role in the fight against male cancer through research and awareness and by supporting patients. 

January 2011 Press Release by The Men's Network

Is it time for gay men and straight men to kiss and make up (or at least shake hands in a firm, manly and entirely non-sexual way)? The death of a Ugandan homosexual rights activist who was targeted by a gay-hate newspaper, then murdered in his home is just one reason why gay men and straight men should join forces to end Violence Against Men and Boys. Gay rights and men’s rights campaigners have never been comfortable bedfellows (and yes I’m playing with innuendo here), but I for one campaigned against the homophobic Section 28 in the Eighties and was very influenced by that campaign when helping to create some of Fathers 4 Justice’s headline-grabbing stunts during my time as the campaign’s PR Director. And it is my belief that the exclusion of men and boys as a distinct and separate group in equalities thinking has not only discriminated against straight men but gay men too – even though they themselves have been categorized (along with their lesbian, bisexual and transgender peers) as an equality group. One area where this connection between the inequality that straight and gay men face is strikingly obvious is in the world of violent crime. Journalist Johann Hari writes that gay children are more prone to being victims of violence with 70% of gay children being bullied at school and 41% get beaten up – not a great start in life Men in general are also more prone to violence, with two thirds of the 1.6 million people who die a violent death every year being male and young men in the UK more than twice as likely to die before the age of 25. Gay people are 6 times more likely to commit suicide than straight people and men 3 times more likely to commit suicide than women. Most people in the UK now support gay ‘marriage’ but fewer people support gay men bringing up children than gay women. These anti-male attitudes about men’s ability to care for children affect straight men and gay men alike. Gay men fight negative stereotypes that they “are all paedophiles” as do straight men who are increasingly presumed to be a danger to children unless proven safe – whether they are separating a father or just a man catching a plane. When you start to make the comparisons, it’s clear that gay men and straight men need to come together (yes I’m still playing with innuendo here) and challenge the world’s collective tolerance of discrimination against men which puts us all at greater risk of violence, leaves us with less support services for issues of mental and emotional wellbeing and treats as all as potential perverts who can’t be trusted with children. Glen Poole, Chair, The Men’s Network Posted January 31, 2011 by glenpoole in NEWS, News From The Men's Network

U.K. IMD sources:
- University of Kent Raise and Give newsletter, November 2008
- Facebook invitation