As the Social Cohesion Ministry kick-started the celebrations of International Day of Men and Boys in Guyana, Minister George Norton highlighted that men are now harmfully stereotyped which increases their vulnerability and promotes gender inequality.
Social Cohesion Minister, Dr George Norton joined by a group of school boys at the launch of International Day of Men and Boys in Guyana
This was as he relayed to a gathering at the Umana Yana on Thursday that, “There is no doubt about the fact that harmful stereotyping of men is an issue we face but we must work to eliminate this issue.”
Norton was at the time speaking at the local launch ahead of Sunday’s observation of the international day set aside for the honouring of men and their contributions to society.
In his address, the Minister suggested that feminist efforts to promote women and gender equality can often open the doors for men to suffer at the hands of a number of social injustices.
In doing so, he relayed, “Sometimes, men and boys are reluctant to speak out on certain issues affecting them, but I must encourage you to let your voices be heard.”
Continuing on that note, Minister Norton indicated that the idea of women being the only victims of domestic violence and abuse are among the misconceptions which tend to silence male victims.
With that in mind, he encouraged the male gathering to embrace their responsibility as men in society despite the stereotypes which seek to threaten their masculinity.
“Men and boys I appeal to you do not be discouraged because of these stereotyping. We must abandon those stereotypes and embrace positive attributes,” Norton stated in his encouragement to men and went on to highlight that that would mean, “Be good role models, build healthy relationships and always be respectful.”
The Social Cohesion Minister went on to point out the important role men continue to play in the development of their families and by extension the country.
“The role of men and boys should never be underestimated. Men and boys must see themselves as responsible, caring and non-violent individuals, who contribute meaningfully to society,” he expressed.
Sharing the similar concerns as it relates to the marginalisation of men in societies, not only in Guyana but across the world, Dr Williams Adu-Krow, who is the country representative attached to the Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO).
Dr Adu-Krow in his remarks at the event noted that the idea of masculinity often results in men being sceptical as it relates to seeking assistance in fear of falling below society’s expectation of their inherent bravery.
This, he noted, often leads to men neglecting basic necessities, such as health care. As such, he is calling for a change in the way males are socialised, with less emphasis being placed on society’s expectations of masculinity, so as to truly level the playing field between men and women, particularly in the Caribbean.
International Day of Men and Boys is celebrated on November 19 in about 70 countries across the globe.
This occasion was earmarked to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of men and boys and more so to focus on their health, promoting gender equality and improving gender relations.
To further commemorate this event in Guyana, the Social Protection Ministry will be hosting a public forum in Georgetown on Sunday.
