The Great Gender Divide.

Women's Day Through the Eyes of Men

When International Women's Day rolls around, it's not uncommon to see men scratching their heads in confusion. "Is this the day we buy flowers?" one might ask, genuinely unsure if it's a romantic holiday or a corporate one. Others might take to social media, posting a picture with the women in their lives, accompanied by a caption that reads, "Happy Women's Day to all the ladies who make life beautiful," as if the day were a beauty pageant rather than a call for equality.

Some men, however, see Women's Day as an opportunity to showcase their "feminist" credentials. They'll proudly declare their support for women's rights, often followed by a subtle reminder of how they're "not like other guys." It's a day of performative allyship, where the bare minimum is celebrated as heroic.

Men's Day Through the Eyes of Women

Conversely, International Men's Day often passes by unnoticed, much to the chagrin of some men. "When's our day?" they lament, only to be met with eye rolls from women who are all too aware that every day is, in many ways, already Men's Day.

When women do acknowledge Men's Day, it's often with a sense of irony. "Happy Men's Day," they might say, "to all the men who managed to wear matching socks today." It's a playful jab at the idea that men need a day to be celebrated for their "manliness," whatever that may entail.

The Commercial Response

Retailers, never one to miss a marketing opportunity, approach both days with a keen sense of capitalism. For Women's Day, it's all about selling empowerment in the form of merchandise. "Buy our 'Girl Power' t-shirt and show the world you're a strong woman!" they advertise, as if feminism were a fashion trend.

Men's Day, on the other hand, is a subtler affair. It's less about empowerment and more about reinforcing stereotypes. "Celebrate Men's Day with our 2-for-1 beer special," a pub might announce, perpetuating the notion that beer and masculinity are intrinsically linked.

Conclusion: A Day of Irony and Eye Rolls

In conclusion, Women’s Day and Men’s Day are like those distant relatives you’re obligated to celebrate once a year. One is met with fanfare and empty gestures, the other with indifference and sarcasm. But hey, at least we get some good memes out of it.