The University of York has confirmed that it will not be commemorating the upcoming International Men’s Day on the 19th November.

The announcement comes after the university cancelled events last year due to comments made by an equality and diversity committee member on the gender imbalance in the assignment of academic postings. Dr Adrian Lee’s remarks concerned what he described as the adverse effect on male equality in the increasing appointment of women. An open letter of complaint, addressed to the University of York’s Registrar David Duncan and containing just under 200 signatures, then finally brought about the cancellation.

International Men’s Day is aimed at addressing issues that affect men and boys, specifically concerning itself with high male suicide rates and both male mental and physical health generally, the challenges of education amid negative perceptions of men and boys, as well as the treatment of men on the fringe of society.

A University of York spokesperson said:

“There are no events planned for International Men’s Day (IMD) on 19 November. We are, however, addressing some of the issues highlighted by IMD, including men’s mental health, with a series of events over the academic year. This term we launched an integrated campaign to highlight the positive steps all students can take to look after their mental health and the support available for those who need it. Further information on student health and wellbeing is available at: https://www.york.ac.uk/students/health/. We remain strongly committed to the principle of gender equality and to the creation of a positive environment which is fair, welcoming and inclusive and where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.”

For more information on International Men’s Day, please consult their UK website.

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