International Day of Peace Focuses on All of Us Shaping Peace Together

In 1981, the United Nations declared September 21 each year as the international day of peace “devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.”  The challenge this year has not been hostile conflicts but fighting the “common enemy” of the Covid-19 pandemic.  “While the message is intended for armed parties, solidarity and cooperation across borders, sectors and generations are also needed to win this new fight against the worst public health crisis of our time.”

            Why have days dedicated to international ideals?  According to the UN’s  website, these days are “occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity.” 

            Peace is a very important initiative for children to learn from an early age.  Visit the UN’s website for more information on this and other international days.  https://www.un.org/en/observances/international-day-peace

International Literacy Day Emphasizes Literacy During the Pandemic & After

What is International Literacy Day and why set aside a day to celebrate literacy?  The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) established this special day in 1966 to be celebrated on September 8 every year.  It strongly believes that “literacy can’t wait” and dedicating this day serves “to remind the public of the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights.”  

            There are at least 5 reasons why literacy is important to everyone:

1.     It promotes our understanding and advancement of health, including brain health.

2.     It allows adults and children to participate actively for the betterment of their communities.

3.     It enables effective communication.

4.     It allows for employment advancement.

5.     It is the key to empowerment as it builds knowledge and self-worth. 

During the Covid19 pandemic, UNESCO has been growingly concerned about what it has found to be the “unpreparedness of infrastructure, education systems, programs, and people for ensuring the continuity of teaching and learning in such a situation.”  Shedding a bright light on this will enable countries all over the world to address the importance of helping teachers to be better educators and to work diligently on improving technology so that education does not lag behind.

To learn more, visit:

https://worldliteracyfoundation.org/international-literacy-day/

https://nationaltoday.com/international-literacy-day/