International Day for Tolerance

International Day for Tolerance History

International Day for Tolerance, a crucial global observance, aims to foster respect and appreciation for the rich diversity of cultures, traditions, and ways of thinking. It plays a significant role in promoting understanding and communication among people from different backgrounds, as well as respecting their rights and freedoms. By encouraging tolerance in all aspects of society, this day targets areas like politics, education, and media, and plays a vital role in combating discrimination, prejudice, and social exclusion.

The United Nations General Assembly established the International Day for Tolerance in 1995 in response to the increasing negative trends in global politics and society. In Canada, this observance is particularly relevant due to its numerous Indigenous populations and ethnically diverse society. The Canadian government has been proactive in tolerance, implementing multicultural policies, creating various programs to support inclusive education and social cohesion, and adopting the Canadian Multiculturalism Act in 1988.

International Day for Tolerance is observed across Canada in various ways, such as through educational programs and activities, workshops, and conferences discussing multiculturalism and inclusion. Academic institutions, civil societies, and governmental organizations typically participate in raising awareness and promoting action on these issues throughout the country. This may include sharing personal stories or focusing on cross-cultural understanding within communities. Additionally, media outlets often feature relevant content that fosters dialogue and highlights the importance of strengthening tolerance. This International Day for Tolerance is commemorated annually on November 16th.

Facts about International Day for Tolerance

• The theme for Tolerance Day in 2024 was Promoting Respect and Understanding Worldwide. In 2023 the theme was Tolerance: A Path to Peace and Reconciliation.
• You can counter intolerance in 5 ways:
  1) Fighting intolerance with law
  2) Fighting intolerance with education
  3) Fighting intolerance with access to information
  4) Fighting intolerance by individual awareness
  5) Fighting intolerance with local solutions
• Xenophobia is the fear or hatred of strangers. It is another word for intolerance.
• In 1971, Canada became the first country in the world to adopt an official policy of multiculturalism. This policy promotes the preservation of cultural identities, fosters respect for diversity, and encourages all Canadians to participate fully in society.
• Canada is one of the most progressive countries in the world when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2005, and there are comprehensive protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day for Tolerance

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

• Raise awareness on social media by using the tags #InternationalDayforTolerance, #ToleranceDay, and #LoveNotHateTolerate.
• Assess the impact of tolerance on your society, its policies and your life. How does this compare to other societies? Do a bit of research to see how different types of governments and policies impact tolerance in a society.
• Engage in open and respectful conversations with people from different backgrounds, listen to their experiences and perspectives, and share your own. Building understanding and empathy through personal connections is invaluable in promoting tolerance.
• If you are an educator or a parent, use this day to teach your students or children about tolerance, respect, and the importance of understanding and accepting others.