He was seen as a protector, defender and guardian against the pests that destroyed crops and limited harvests.His role changed as invaders from warring clans descended upon hapless villagers and the people, not the crops, needed defending.Throughout the years, it has been adapted for various uses, although the ideals have relatively remained intact.Attributes viewed today as masculine characteristics.As such, the symbol is now used to signify the male organism.
The Ngirbelau logo incorporates the shield and spear in its design.The logo consists of three circles representing the three life stages (childhood, adolescence/young adult and adulthood) and the fishing spear, the traditional tool of the Palauan man with which he harvested food for his family and, should it become necessary, for the protection of his kith and kin.The last sphere and the spear form what has become the international symbol of men.
Throughout each stage of the life course, as boys become men, there are many variables that shape the man he will eventually become.Culture is just one of those variables, as we conform to what society says are the rules of normalcy.The influence of parents, peers and the media also contribute greatly to the overall psyche of the individual.Life is volatile, not static, and we make decisions based on input from many different sources.The decisions we make are weighed consciously and subconsciously through the many life experiences we’ve had that have shaped the person each of us has become.
On Friday June 11, 2010 at the Ngarachamayong Cultural Center, the 4th Ngirbelau (Male Health) Conference will be held from 7:30am-4:30pm.This year’s theme is Chelngelel a Ngirbelau in reference to the roles and responsibilities, cultural ideals of masculinity, pride, self, and the external factors that define who Ngirbelau is.This year will feature a special panel discussion on Culture, Gender & Masculinity: A Female Perspective.Additionally, a breakout session for youth ages 15-19 on Gender and Reproductive Health is also planned.We invite men of all ages to come and voice their opinions and, hopefully, find ways to improve their overall health.
//
