WORLD DAY FOR CULTURAL DIVERSITY | May 21
WORLD DAY FOR CULTURAL DIVERSITY
Every year on May 21st, the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development urges everyone to do their part to bridge the gap between cultures. The day is often referred to as Diversity Day.
#DiversityDay
According to the UN, bridging this gap is essential for peace, development, and stability. When we deepen our understanding of the values of cultural diversity we can achieve these four goals:
- Support sustainable systems for the governance of culture.
- Achieve a balanced flow of cultural goods and services.
- Integrate culture into the frameworks of sustainable development.
- Promote human rights and fundamental freedoms.
These four goals were established during the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.
Besides achieving these goals, embracing other cultures helps us to lead more fulfilling lives. This fulfillment happens intellectually, spiritually, and morally. How exactly do we embrace other cultures? It all begins by having a dialogue between those who are different than us. Other ways to embrace our differences is to develop respect and mutual understanding for different cultures and those of other faiths.
When we focus on embracing other cultures, we help improve many sectors of our lives. These sectors include education, science, health, and the environment. Many also believe that bridging culture gaps can help to eradicate poverty.
HOW TO OBSERVE DIVERSITY DAY
UNESCO encourages Member States and members of society to take part in this day. Cultural diversity events are held around the world. These events include concerts, educational seminars, workshops, and exhibitions. Here are some of the many ways you can participate:
- Visit an art exhibition or a museum dedicated to other cultures
- Learn about another religion
- Watch an International film
- Listen to a musical tradition from a different culture
- Play a sport related to a different culture (Karate, Criquet)
- Cook traditional food from a different culture
- Learn about traditional celebrations from other cultures
- Volunteer with an organization working for diversity and inclusion
- Learn another language
Use #WorldDayForCulturalDiversity or #DiversityDay to share on social media.
WORLD DAY FOR CULTURAL DIVERSITY HISTORY
UNESCO adopted the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity in December 2001. In December 2002, the UN General Assembly declared May 21st as the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.
