01 Nov 2021 8:00am - 30 Nov 2021 6:00pm

What's Happening at Resource Hub in November?Enrichment

International Day for Tolerance

 

The International Day for Tolerance declared by United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is an annual observance day marked on 16 November of every year to create public awareness about the principles of tolerance and understanding the risks posed by intolerance. It all started in 1995 when UNESCO adopted the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance which calls for an international day to be commemorated.

 

Empathy and understanding are essential components of tolerance. It does not matter whether we agree with them or not, others have the same rights as much as us. We should always remind ourselves to make space for each other’s opinions and appreciate the perspectives of others. International Day for Tolerance was also commemorated to celebrate diversity and to build mutual understandings to culminate peaceful environments for all to co-exist. Respect, acceptance and appreciating the rich diversity of our world’s cultures are part of tolerance. When we focus on what we have in common, we can transform the way our societies work and we can make the world in which we live in, a more harmonious place.

 

As UNESCO puts it, “Education for tolerance should aim at countering influences that lead to fear and exclusion of others, and should help young people develop capacities for independent judgement, critical thinking and ethical reasoning. The diversity of our world's many religions, languages, cultures and ethnicities is not a pretext for conflict, but is a treasure that enriches us all." The past 2 years has been tough on many people and it was proven by the many occurrences that had happened globally. Let’s take this opportunity to understand the risks posed by intolerance while we embrace differences and cherish the harmonious diverse societies in which we live in.

 

Here is an article for your reading pleasure:

https://nationaltoday.com/international-day-for-tolerance/