International Women’s Day beneficial for men too

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Opinion

International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8th, and highlights the achievements of women worldwide in fields such as politics, science, business and the arts. While the day primarily focuses on women’s rights and empowerment, its significance is equally beneficial for men too.

Tim MarshallTauawhi Men’s Centre

By celebrating women’s accomplishments, men can gain a greater appreciation for women’s abilities and potential, helping to break down stereotypes and biases that limit women’s opportunities.

International Women’s Day encourages men to listen to women’s experiences and concerns, and provides an opportunity for men to recognise the struggles and challenges women face daily, such as discrimination, harassment and unequal treatment. It serves as a reminder for men to reflect on their own behaviours and help develop healthier and more respectful, trusting and supportive relationships between men and women.

Equality between the genders benefits everyone in society, men and women, and creates a more balanced and fair society. By promoting gender equality, men can contribute to the making of a more inclusive and prosperous world for themselves, the females in their lives — their partners, mother, sisters, daughters, work colleagues — and future generations.

International Women’s Day is also about challenging the stereotypes of gender roles which not only can limit the way women are expected to behave, but men also. This rejection of traditional roles allows both men and women to express themselves as they wish, and pursue interests and careers without fear of judgement based on gender norms.

The set of societal expectations and norms that dictate how men should behave, think, and express themselves often pressures men to conform to traditional masculine ideals, which can have profound effects on their mental, emotional and social wellbeing.

Men are often taught from a young age to suppress emotions such as vulnerability, sadness and fear, as these are perceived as signs of weakness. This pressure to conform can lead to a range of negative consequences.

For instance, men may struggle to form deep and meaningful connections with others, as they fear being perceived as “unmanly” for expressing their true feelings. It may lead to men struggling to communicate effectively with their partners, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts and barriers to truly meaningful relationships with their loved ones. These expectations can take a significant toll on men’s mental health.

Studies have shown that men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues due to stigma and a fear of appearing weak or vulnerable. Consequently, many men suffer in silence, leading to higher rates of depression, anxiety and even suicide.

Another concerning aspect of rigid gender roles is their association with aggression and violence. Displays of dominance and control are often respected, even admired. This can contribute to a culture of toxic masculinity where violence is glorified and arguments are settled with aggression rather than dialogue.

Gender equality allows men the freedom of greater emotional expression. It also promotes healthier families. Men benefit from sharing caregiving responsibilities and enjoying more fulfilling relationships with their partners and children, and serving as positive role models for our sons and other males in our lives.

International Women’s Day is a time not only to celebrate women but also to encourage men to recognise and appreciate the women in their lives. Even through simple gestures of appreciation, men can build stronger, more meaningful connections with the women around them.

Gender equality is not a battle between the sexes but is a collaborative effort towards a fairer society.