International Day for Tolerance

International Day for Tolerance History

International Day for Tolerance is an annual, global campaign designated by the United Nations (UN) to foster mutual understanding and respect among cultures and peoples worldwide. The day aims to highlight the essential role that tolerance plays in promoting harmony and cooperation within societies and the importance of embracing diversity. The observance emphasizes the need for open-mindedness and acceptance of different beliefs, ideas, and traditions to foster peace, enhance social cohesion, and combat all forms of discrimination.

The UN established the International Day for Tolerance on November 16th, 1995, in response to the increasing acts of intolerance and violence around the world. This celebration and its ideals take on a special significance for South Africans, who have experienced a challenging history marked by apartheid, racial and ethnic division, and ongoing inequality. The country's transition to democracy signifies a commitment to promoting tolerance and social justice, enshrined in the landmark Constitution and Bill of Rights. South Africa's ongoing endeavours to reaffirm the importance of inclusivity and tolerance stand as a testament to the progress made and the challenges that still lie ahead in building a just and equal society.

Observing International Day for Tolerance in South Africa often entails various public events, discussions, workshops, and educational campaigns organized by government institutions, civil society organizations, and educational establishments. These programs aim to promote awareness of the importance of tolerance and diversity, highlighting the country's rich cultural heritage, and the values enshrined in the Constitution. As part of the South African community, your active participation in these events is crucial to the success of International Day for Tolerance. It is celebrated annually on November 16th as a reminder of the country's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and harmonious society united in diversity.

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.
• The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was established in 1995 to uncover the truth about human-rights abuses during the apartheid era. The TRC played a crucial role in fostering tolerance and reconciliation between the victims and perpetrators of racial violence and human rights violations.
• The South African Constitution, adopted in 1996, is one of the most progressive in the world, promoting tolerance, non-discrimination, and equality among its citizens. It contains a Bill of Rights that guarantees fundamental rights for all, including the right to equal protection and benefit of the law, the right to human dignity, and the right to freedom of religion, belief, and opinion.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for International Day for Tolerance

Top things to do in South Africa 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.
• Organize or participate in local events that bring people from different backgrounds together, such as community classes, cultural celebrations, or neighborhood gatherings. This day can be an opportunity to foster greater tolerance and understanding within your own community.
• South Africa has many historical sites that are symbols of the struggle against apartheid and racism, such as Robben Island and the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum. Visiting these sites on International Day for Tolerance can remind people of the importance of tolerance and unity in the nation.