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 an international observance aimed at promoting appreciation of cultural diversity, fostering dialogue between different communities, and encouraging cooperation for sustainable development. This day emphasizes the importance of intercultural exchange in the face of globalization, as well as the need for inclusivity and respect for all cultures in modern societies.

The observance has its roots in the United Nations Declaration on Cultural Diversity, adopted in 2001, which proclaimed that cultural diversity is a source of innovation, creativity, and social cohesion. South Africa, aptly known as the "Rainbow Nation," showcases a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development holds particular meaning in South Africa, providing an opportunity to embrace all of the cultural aspects that contribute to building a diverse society. As South Africans join the global celebration of World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development on May 21, it is an opportunity for the nation to come together, embracing and cherishing the diversity of its people, while working towards eradicating racial prejudices, ethnic inequalities, and promoting social cohesion for the development and prosperity of the country.

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.
• South Africa has 11 official languages, the highest number of official languages in any country in the world.
• South Africa has rich cultural diversity and is home to various ethnic groups like the Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, and Sotho.

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

Top things to do in South Africa 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 South Africa today. Here are our top picks:
  1. Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013) - This biographical film is based on the life and times of South African leader Nelson Mandela, and his journey from a rural village to becoming the first black president of South Africa.
  2. Searching for Sugarman (2012) – This Oscar-winning documentary tells the story of Rodriguez, an American musician who despite his lack of success in the United States gained a significant following in South Africa during apartheid, becoming a symbol of resistance and inspiration for many South Africans.
  3. Invictus (2009) - This drama is about the events that occurred after the fall of apartheid in South Africa, particularly around the 1995 Rugby World Cup, which was held in the country and was seen as an opportunity to unite the racially divided nation.
• Plan a trip to the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg to gain insights into South Africa's past and its diverse, reconciliatory present.