The Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Committee gave an Assembly on International Men’s Day

November 18th 2024

The Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Committee gave an Assembly on International Men’s Day...

Flickr album: EDI Committee Assembly on International Men's Day - 18th November 2024 | Height: auto | Theme: Default | Skin: Default Skin

International Men’s Day, is a day designed to do a number of things: Firstly, to promote positive male role models, secondly, to celebrate men's positive contributions to society, community, family, marriage, child care and the environment, and also to focus on men's health and wellbeing and to highlight discrimination against men in areas of social attitudes and expectations, and law. Moreover, to improve gender relations and promote gender equality, and to create a safer, better world, where people can be safe and grow to reach their full potential.

One such example is Nelson Mandela, who was global icon for peace, justice, and forgiveness. Despite facing immense challenges, he showed us the power of resilience and the importance of fighting for equality. His legacy continues to inspire countless people around the world to stand up for what is right. He has showed un-wavering commitment to what he believes in, which is something that anyone, not just men, can benefit from.

Another incredible role model is Marcus Rashford, the young footballer who has used his platform to address child poverty and hunger. Marcus shows us that true leadership extends beyond personal success, using his influence to uplift others and advocate for positive change. He also shows that even in his massive success he still does not forget about the good he can do for others.

A role model that some of you might find strange to hear me mention is Justin Bieber - not because of his music and the money he has made. More because he was a male celebrity who in 2011, when he was 17, was at the centre of a paternity scandal when 20-year-old Mariah Yeater sued him and claimed he was the father of her three-month-old son. Mariah alleged that Justin hooked up with her backstage after a concert. He denied her claims, saying, "I never met the woman. I know that I’m going to be a target, but I'm never going to be a victim. I think it's crazy because every night after the show I'm gone, right from the stage to my car, so it's crazy that some people want to make up such false allegations, but to set the record straight, none of it is true. I've never met the woman." It was later proven that this was a false allegation and Justin Bieber became a role model as a male popstar who stands up to false allegations which many men can be victim too.

A positive male role model that many of us know after he came and gave a talk to the 6^th Form last year is Talan Skeels-Piggins, a Paralympic skier and motorbike racer who has undergone incredible diversity throughout his live. After being paralysed in a motorcycle accident from the chest down he showed huge determination and the importance of perseverance in life. He overcame many of the challenges which come with a massive life altering event like this and he still inspires others to this day.

I hope that we can all strive to follow in the examples that these great men have set while also appreciating all of the male role models we have individually grown up with such as our fathers, brothers and teachers.

Men who the Prefects feel are positive role models:

'President Obama as his Presidency was a milestone for Civil Rights in America.'

'David Attenborough as he’s inspired generations to care about climate change and the environment.'

'Rob Burrows for his resilience throughout his fight with Motor Neuron Disease, sharing his incredible story with the world, inspiring millions of people.'

'My grandfather as he served in the air force for most of his life, and it isn’t so much that he inspired me to follow in his footsteps, but just to be a better person, in so many different ways.'

Fred U6^th Form, Blackford House and George U6^th Form, New House