UNESCO International Tolerance Day
When is International Tolerance Day? This holiday is always observed on November 16
UNESCO International Tolerance Day is an annual event, celebrated around the world. The United Nations and UNESCO created and sponsor this November 16 holiday. The United Nations is committed to strengthening tolerance by fostering mutual understanding among cultures and peoples. This is especially needed in these times of war, terrorism, and disregard for human life. Countries around the world celebrate this day, by holding conferences, fairs, and other events to teach the meaning and importance of tolerance, and encourage individuals and groups to practice tolerance, respect, and dignity. Practicing tolerance toward others will help lead to peace.
According to UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon: “The United Nations promotes tolerance as a matter of its fundamental identity. When tolerance is upheld, we encourage the world to emulate those fine examples. When tolerance is threatened, we must speak out.” — UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon.
If you are in a position to do so, create an event for your company, organization, or group, to promote and teach tolerance. As an individual look for events on this day, where you can participate.
How to Celebrate UNESCO International Tolerance Day
There are many things you can do to promote tolerance. Here are some ideas:
- As individuals, practice tolerance, respect, and dignity towards everyone in your life, as well as those you meet.
- Support efforts by the Federal government and organizations to promote tolerance around the world.
- Teachers and educators can create a lesson plan around the topic of tolerance.
- Local governments and organizations can hold events promoting tolerance and better understanding of diversity with their communities.
Today's Quote
“Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.” – – Confucius
History and Origin of UNESCO International Tolerance Day
International Tolerance Day was proclaimed in 1993 by the UN General Assembly. 1995 was declared the Year of Tolerance. Then, this day became an annual event, sponsored and promoted by UNESCO. In 1996, the UN issued resolution 51/95, encouraging all member nations to participate in this day.
This Day in History
In addition to International Tolerance Day, here are some things that happened on this day:
- The Lewis and Clark Expedition reaches the Pacific Ocean. (1805)
- Walt Disney opens EPCOT Center. (1965)
- Actress Lisa Bonet was born on this day in (1967)
More November 16 Holidays
In addition to UNESCO International Tolerance Day, here are more November 16 holidays and events we’re sure you will enjoy:
More About Today
Recipe of the Day: Apple Cider Mull
Also See: Pumpkin Recipes Galore and Holiday Recipes
Ecards Send a free Ecard daily for International Tolerance Day or just about any November calendar holiday, occasion, observance, or event. Without a doubt, it’s fun for both the sender and the recipient.
Holiday Insights, where every day in November is a holiday, a bizarre or wacky day, an observance, or a special event. Therefore, please join us in the daily calendar fun each and every day of the year.
Did You Know? Furthermore, in addition to International Tolerance Day, there are literally thousands of daily holidays, special events, and observances, more than one for every day of the year. and many of these holidays are new. People and organizations are creating new holidays regularly. November holidays are no exception. Consequently, at Holiday Insights, we take great efforts to thoroughly research and document the details of each one, as completely and accurately as possible.
