International Men's Day 2024: A Celebration of Positive Masculinity and a Call for Support

This International Men’s Day, let's move beyond the often-negative portrayals of masculinity and celebrate the positive contributions men make to the world. The day, observed annually on November 19th, provides an opportunity to acknowledge the vital roles men play as fathers, husbands, brothers, sons, and friends. It’s a chance to appreciate their love, support, and sacrifices, often unseen and unacknowledged.

Challenging the Narrative of 'Toxic Masculinity'

In recent years, discussions surrounding “toxic masculinity” have dominated the discourse. While acknowledging the very real issue of violence and misogyny, it's crucial to avoid painting all men with the same brush. Dads4Kids Founder Warrick Marsh rightly points out that “the idea that men are inherently bad and that ‘maleness’ is bad [is an] idea I’d reject entirely.” International Men’s Day, he emphasizes, is “about celebrating the good, focusing on the good and elevating the good.”

This year's theme, “positive role models,” perfectly encapsulates this sentiment. It champions the positive values men bring to their families, communities, and the world at large, while also promoting men's overall well-being. It is an important call to action to encourage men to be courageous, to act nobly, and with integrity.

The Pervasive Impact of Father Absence

One of the most critical aspects of positive masculinity is the role of fathers. Unfortunately, father absence is a stark reality for many families. A report from Dads4Kids reveals that 85% of single-parent households are fatherless families. This absence has profound and lasting consequences, impacting children's educational, psychological, and social development. Quoting Bryan Rodgers of the Australian National University, the Dads4Kids report highlights that parental divorce “is a risk factor for a wide range of social and psychological problems in adolescence and adulthood including poor academic achievement, low self-esteem, psychological distress, delinquency and recidivism, substance use and abuse, sexual precocity, adult criminal offending, depression, and suicidal behaviour.” The report further underscores that “There is no scientific justification for disregarding the public health significance of marital dissolution in Australia, especially with respect to mental health.”

The Importance of Positive Role Models

For men who step up to fill the void left by absent fathers, and for present dads seeking positive examples to model for their children, Warrick Marsh's advice is simple yet profound: “look at Jesus.” He explains, “Jesus lived amongst us as one who serves…He washed his disciples’ feet and He dried their feet and said ‘you must do this too’: if you get a leadership role don’t lord it over people, but serve them. Ultimately Jesus gave up His life for the whole world, and I would argue that’s what men are called to do. To bear the brunt of a lot of bad things for the greater good.”

Celebrating the Men Who Make a Difference

International Men’s Day is not just about acknowledging challenges; it’s about celebrating the men who are actively making a positive impact. It's a day to appreciate the men who embody positive masculinity, those who serve as beacons of hope and inspiration. On November 19th, Warrick Marsh hopes we can celebrate the men doing a good job, and highlight the value we place on their support and influence in our lives. He encourages us to “Smile, and say, ‘we appreciate you’. Mother Theresa said the greatest thing you can give people is a smile, so [let’s] show some smiles and some love to the men around you and encourage them.”

This International Men's Day, let's actively promote positive male role models and celebrate the positive values men bring to our world. It's a day to appreciate the strength, kindness, and compassion that men demonstrate daily, while also addressing the systemic issues that impact men's well-being and the lives of those around them. This includes acknowledging and working towards solutions for the significant impact of fatherless families on society. Let’s continue to foster conversations that encourage men to embrace their roles as caring, responsible individuals, contributing to a healthier, more equitable society for all.

A Future Forged in Positive Masculinity

The work of organizations like Redcliffe Area Youth Space exemplifies the crucial role of positive male role models in the lives of young men struggling with trauma and disengagement. By providing safe spaces, mentorship, and practical life skills, these organizations are empowering young men to overcome adversity and build brighter futures. Their efforts show the transformative potential of investing in positive masculinity and supporting men's overall well-being. It's a testament to the fact that by fostering a culture of support and understanding, we can create a world where all men can thrive, and where their positive contributions are celebrated and valued.

The ongoing efforts to redefine masculinity, away from harmful stereotypes and towards a more holistic and positive understanding of manhood, are critical for the well-being of individuals and the advancement of society as a whole. Through awareness campaigns, community initiatives, and ongoing dialogues, we can collectively build a future where positive masculinity is the norm, not the exception. Let’s not only celebrate International Men’s Day but also continue the conversation and the work towards a world that values and supports the positive contributions of men in all their forms. The journey towards a more equitable and just society requires the collective effort of all genders, working together to promote health, well-being, and mutual respect.