International Women’s Days is celebrated on March 8 every year, however little is known about International Men’s Day.

After persistent rhetorical questions of “Why do women have an international celebration and not men?”, International Men’s Day was established in the early 1990s.

According to the official International Men’s Day website, “Early pioneers of IMD have reminded that the day is not intended to compete against International Woman’s Day, but is for the purpose of highlighting men’s experiences”.

When is International Men’s Day?

The day is celebrated on November 19 every year. It is an international event that is celebrated in over 70 countries.

Why is International Men’s Day celebrated?

It is celebrated to acknowledge men’s achievements and contributions, especially to their communities and families.

When was the first International Men’s Day?

The first day was celebrated in 1994. A rally took place in Sydney and commenced with a gathering at Circular Quay.

The rally focused on men’s health and the need to improve gender relations and equality.

There were multiple guest speakers including Paul Whyte from the Sydney Men’s Network and Jenny Dall, editor of the Scarlet Letter. 

The numbers were small with 50 people attending but it has grown throughout the years.

Is there a theme every year?

Yes. The theme for 2018 is positive male role models.

In previous years the themes have been peace (2002), healing and forgiveness (2007) and “Our children our future” (2010).