No Father’s Day recognition or celebration: United Nation’s systemic gender bias against men

Dear United Nations,

I write to you today with a sense of outrage, disappointment, and frustration. Despite your lofty pledges to achieve a just and equal world, you have consistently ignored days dedicated to celebrating men. This blatant disregard for half of the global population is a stark reminder of the systemic gender bias that pervades your institution.

You proudly proclaim your commitment to gender equality, yet you hypocritically ignore the unseen sacrifices of fathers, husbands, and sons. You claim to champion the rights of the marginalized, but men are seemingly invisible to you. Your silence is deafening. It perpetuates a harmful narrative that men are not worthy of recognition or celebration. This not only harms men but also has far-reaching consequences for families, communities, and society as a whole.

You celebrate numerous days dedicated to women, including:

– International Women’s Day (March 8)

– International Girls’ Day (October 11)

– International Day of the Girl Child (October 11)

– Women’s History Month (March)

– International Women’s Day of Peace and Disarmament (May 24)

These celebrations are important and necessary, but they also highlight the stark contrast in recognition and celebration of men. There are no UN-recognized days dedicated to celebrating men or boys, a disparity that perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes and discrimination.

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This omission is not only a slight against men but also has far-reaching consequences for society. It perpetuates a narrative that men are not equally valuable or important, contributing to systemic gender bias and discrimination. It reinforces harmful gender stereotypes, limiting men’s ability to express emotions, seek help, and pursue non-traditional roles. It also neglects the unique challenges men face, such as higher rates of suicide, homelessness, and incarceration.

I demand accountability from the United Nations. It is time for you to acknowledge the importance of celebrating men and their contributions. It is time for you to recognize the value of fathers, the impact of positive male role models, and the sacrifices men make for their families and communities.

Your failure to act will have far-reaching consequences. It will perpetuate a world where men are marginalized, boys are disenfranchised, and families suffer. It will undermine your credibility and legitimacy. It will show the world that your commitments to gender equality are nothing more than empty promises.

I expect a response and a plan of action to address this issue. The world is watching, and men deserve better. It’s time for the United Nations to practice what it preaches and truly champion gender equality for all.

 

Halima Layeni

Men’s Mental Health Advocate

Executive Director

Life After Abuse Foundation