World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is a global event aimed at promoting cultural exchange and understanding, strengthening social cohesion, and supporting sustainable development. This day provides an opportunity for individuals and communities in New Zealand to embrace the rich tapestry of different cultures, engage in intercultural dialogue, and work towards achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

The idea for this day emerged from UNESCO's 2001 Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity, which highlighted the importance of cultural diversity as a driver of economic growth, peace, and social stability. By fostering dialogue and collaboration among various cultural and religious groups, the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development aims to bridge divides, combat discrimination, and build more inclusive societies. Activities during the day can include conferences, exhibitions, workshops, and artistic performances that celebrate cultural diversity and promote mutual understanding.

New Zealand uses the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development as an opportunity to showcase its rich Maori, Pasifika, Asian, and European heritage, and promote respect for different cultural values and beliefs. By engaging in a variety of events and initiatives across the country on May 21, New Zealanders can demonstrate their commitment to fostering a more diverse and harmonious world.

Facts about this UN Observance

• A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that individuals living in diverse communities reported greater trust and social cohesion.
• According to the UN, 75% of the world’s major conflicts are related to cultural aspects.
• According to a report by McKinsey & Company, companies in the top quartile for ethnic and cultural diversity in their executive teams were 36% more likely to have above-average profitability than companies in the bottom quartile.
• The Maori culture is deeply embedded in New Zealand's identity, with almost 15% of the population identifying as Maori.
• New Zealand is home to the largest Polynesian population in the world, with over 265,000 people identifying as Pacific Islanders.

In the News and Trending in NZ for World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

Top things to do in NZ for this observance

• Attend local community events and get to know the people in your community. Meeting new people from different cultures and walks of life is a good way to bridge any cultural gaps.
• Explore UNESCO's World Heritage interactive exhibit. It features images from different cultures all around the world.
• Watch a movie about cultural diversity in New Zealand today. Our top picks include:
  1. Tātarakihi: The Children of Parihaka (2012): A documentary that tells the story of the Māori village of Parihaka, which pioneered passive resistance to European colonization.
  2. Poi E: The Story of Our Song (2016): A documentary exploring the creation of the beloved Māori pop song, "Poi E," and its impact on New Zealand's cultural landscape.
  3. Waru (2017): A collection of eight short films by Māori women filmmakers, each revolving around the same event within a Māori community.
• Learn about the Māori culture in your local community. Visit a marae (Māori meeting grounds), experience a pōwhiri (Māori welcoming ceremony), or participate in a kapa haka performance, a traditional Māori dance.