International Day of Friendship

International Friendship Day History

International Day of Friendship is a United Nations (UN) observance that promotes the role of friendship in building peace, bridging cultural divides, and fostering understanding among people from diverse backgrounds. It is an opportunity to recognize the value of cultivating strong bonds and trust between individuals, communities, and nations, ultimately contributing to the well-being and prosperity of the global society. The day also encourages activities that empower youth to overcome prejudices, teach respect, and develop a sense of global unity.

Established by the UN General Assembly in 2011, International Day of Friendship has its roots in the decades-long work of organizations and individuals dedicated to fostering friendships across borders. For Canada, the significance of this day lies in promoting respect and appreciation for the country's rich tapestry of individual identities. By embracing the spirit of friendship, Canadians are not only fostering harmony and understanding among themselves, but also nurturing positive relationships with people from other nations.

In observance of International Day of Friendship, Canadians participate in various activities aimed at promoting cross-cultural understanding, compassion, and solidarity. These events may include educational programs, cultural exchanges, community gatherings, or charitable initiatives. Schools, community organizations, and social clubs across Canada often host events that encourage people to build connections and establish new friendships with those from different cultural backgrounds. International Day of Friendship is celebrated annually on July 30th, providing an opportunity for Canadians to come together and appreciate the importance of fostering harmonious connections, both within the nation and beyond its borders.

Facts & quotes about International Day of Friendship

• In 1998, the UN Secretary's wife, Nane Annan, named Winnie the Pooh as the Ambassador of Friendship at the UN.
• It's been proved that we can catch happiness from our friends. A Harvard study suggested that if a person becomes happy, a friend living close by has a 25% higher chance of becoming happy too.
• Studies show that the quality of friendships during adolescence could predict mental health in adulthood.
• Canadians often form strong, long-term friendships. The concept of a best friend is deeply ingrained in Canadian culture, with many people maintaining friendships that span decades, often starting from childhood.
• Many Canadians place a high importance on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which can lead to stronger relationships with friends outside of work hours.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day of Friendship

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

• Let every one of your friends know how much you appreciate them - with a card, a letter, a phone call, an email, a text, etc.
• Perform random acts of kindness for strangers and make some new friends.
• Visit a cultural center or museum with your friends. Many cities have cultural centers or museums that showcase the history and contributions of various cultures, such as the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax or the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto.
• Share a meal with friends at a restaurant featuring cuisine from another culture or country. This not only supports local businesses but provides an opportunity to learn about and appreciate different food and traditions.