International Women's Day: What About Men?

Posted by thorogoodhr on 09.03.2025, 11:02 149 0

Caitlin Moran's book, What About Men?, offers a compelling examination of contemporary masculinity and its challenges, providing valuable insights that resonate deeply with the objectives of International Women's Day.

Moran, renowned for her feminist writings, shifts her focus to men's issues, emphasising that achieving true gender equality necessitates the active involvement and well-being of men.

In her exploration, Moran identifies several areas where men face significant challenges:

1. Emotional Expression: Men often struggle with articulating their problems, resorting instead to "banter" that masks deeper emotional issues. This reluctance to engage in open conversations about personal struggles can lead to unresolved mental health issues.

2. Lack of Support Networks: Unlike women, who benefit from "The Sisterhood"—a collective support system—men lack equivalent structures. This absence makes it challenging for men to seek and receive support during times of need.

3. Mental Health Services: There is a disparity in mental health services tailored for men, contributing to alarming suicide rates among males. The societal expectation for men to remain stoic exacerbates this issue, discouraging them from seeking help.

4. Public Discourse and Support: Men lack the public avenues to express and receive support for their challenges. The societal fear of being perceived as vulnerable or facing homophobic judgments prevents men from forming supportive communities akin to those women have established.

Moran advocates that the principles of feminism, which have been instrumental in addressing women's issues, can also be applied to men's challenges. She suggests that men adopt feminist tools such as open dialogue, breaking taboos, organizing campaigns, forming alliances, and supporting each other to foster change and liberation.

International Women's Day, celebrated on March 8th, is a global event dedicated to honouring the achievements of women and advocating for gender equality. While its primary focus is on women's rights, the day also serves as a reminder that true equality encompasses all genders. Moran's insights highlight the importance of including men in the conversation about gender equality.

By addressing men's issues, society can dismantle harmful stereotypes and expectations that affect all genders. Encouraging men to express vulnerability, seek support, and challenge traditional norms not only benefits men but also creates a more empathetic and understanding society. This inclusivity ensures that the pursuit of equality is comprehensive and beneficial for everyone.