In a historic and unanimous decision on November 10, the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) endorsed a private motion aimed at improving the mental health and overall well-being of men and boys on the island. The motion, introduced by stand-in Minority Leader Keigon Denoon, was deliberated during the THA’s inaugural International Men’s Day Debate held in Scarborough. This landmark event, commemorating International Men’s Day on November 19, featured young boys and men assuming the roles of assemblymen and councillors in a dynamic and insightful three-and-a-half-hour session, presided over by Akeil Andrews. The motion advocates for the creation of sustainable, multi-sectoral programs to tackle critical issues such as mental health, positive male identity, and the development of healthy coping mechanisms. It also emphasizes the need for collaboration between governmental and non-governmental organizations to strengthen Tobago’s social fabric. Denoon passionately urged members to prioritize the welfare of men and boys over political affiliations, warning of the dire consequences of inaction. He highlighted the systemic neglect of men, calling for gender-specific interventions, including district-based mental health clinics, community mentorship programs, and annual scorecards to track progress. Stand-in THA Chief Secretary Akinlabi Holder supported the motion, stressing the importance of public education campaigns to dismantle harmful societal conditioning and improve men’s mental health. Holder underscored the societal benefits of raising healthy boys rather than repairing broken men, citing international studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of such initiatives.
