International Mens Day

International Mens Day History

International Men's Day (IMD) is an annual observance that aims to promote awareness of men's issues and celebrate their positive contributions to society, including their achievements in various fields such as family, community, and professional life. The observance also focuses on highlighting men's mental health, promoting gender equality, and fostering better relationships among the general population. Important aspects of IMD include addressing male suicide rates, tackling male stereotypes, and advocating for positive role models for men and boys.

Although International Men's Day was first proposed in 1968, it was formally established by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh in 1999 in Trinidad and Tobago. Since then, the observance has gained global recognition, with numerous countries, including Canada, participating in the annual celebration. For Canadians, IMD takes on special significance, as it offers an opportunity to address pressing concerns such as male mental health, challenging traditional concepts of masculinity, and educating the public on the importance of gender equality.

In Canada, International Men's Day is observed on November 19, in line with its global celebration date. Events and activities are held across the country to recognize and promote the value and importance of men's contributions to society, as well as provide a platform for discussion on issues affecting men. These can include conferences, panel discussions, workshops, and charity events. IMD provides an opportunity for Canadians to come together and reaffirm their commitment to celebrating men's positive influence and addressing the critical challenges men and boys face in today's society.

International Mens Day facts

• The theme for International Men's Day in 2023 was Zero Male Suicide.
• Men are three times more likely to die from suicide than women.
• International Men's Day structures its objectives as 6 pillars:
  1) To promote positive male role models
  2) To celebrate men's positive contributions to society
  3) To focus on men's health and wellbeing
  4) To highlight discrimination against men
  5) To improve gender relations and promote gender equality
  6) To create a safer, better world
• The life expectancy for Canadian men is currently around 80 years, which is lower than that of Canadian women (84 years). Men's life expectancy has been steadily increasing since the 1920s.
• Over 62% of men in Canada are employed, with the largest share of men working in the transportation and warehousing industries, followed by construction, and professional, scientific, and technical services. The unemployment rate among men is approximately 6-7%.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Mens Day

Top things to do in Canada for International Mens Day

• Award a positive male role model or someone who inspires you with an International Men's Day certificate. For instructions on making one, go to IMD Award Certificates .
• Raise awareness on social media by using the tags #internationalmensday, #celebratemen, #menshealth, #stopmalesuicide, and #thankamantoday
• Research and donate to local or national charities focused on men's health, equality, or social issues such as homelessness or domestic violence.
• Organize a video call with male friends, family members, or colleagues to connect and celebrate each other. You can discuss important issues, share experiences, and appreciate the contributions of men in your lives.