An Ode to International Men's Day...

We are working in a work in progress environment where organizations talk of being inclusive. Empowering women to lead the new world, rising awareness about opportunities for the third gender, are some of the initiative’s organizations take when they talk of being Inclusive. It’s a popular belief that men have been privileged in several aspects but on the contrary, it is seen that often men are victims of unconscious bias. Organizations unconsciously becomes not so conducive for their holistic development and growth. In this aspect organizations should broaden their inclusion lens and ensure that the workplace is the kind which provides a space to grow, for one and all.

In this week of Men’s Day, let’s learn on potential workplace shifts that can help bridge this inclusion gap.

Family Care Benefits:

Parental and caregiver benefits are often provided only to women, on the assumption that it’s the women who take up the burden of family care. But men too can choose to become care givers and such benefits for men should be introduced by employers.

Mental health: Organizations should provide equal and safe platform for men to express and share their emotions. Organizations should create platform where men won’t be judged for expressing the soft side of their personalities and not fear of any consequences.

Work wear: Organizations should embrace the fluid work wear for men and allow them autonomy in choosing their style. (Read more on fluid work wear for men from this article in Hindustan times https://www.hindustantimes.com/brunch/the-a-to-z-of-gender-fluid-menswear/story-U41JOSz50QLtbFHHXOFKAJ.html

These initiatives by organizations can help them break stereotypes, encourage interaction with focus on sensitization and broaden their inclusion lens. Such ecosystems will provide everyone an equal opportunity for growth and development.