21 May: World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
Pursuant to UNESCO’s Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity of November 2001, the General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed 21 May as World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development (Resolution 57/249). This day therefore observes and tries to further the understanding of Cultural Diversity values in an attempt to teach people to “live together” better.
"Cultural rights are an integral part of human rights, which are universal, indivisible and interdependent. The flourishing of creative diversity requires the full implementation of cultural rights as defined in Article 27 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and in Articles 13 and 15 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. All persons have therefore the right to express themselves and to create and disseminate their work in the language of their choice, and particularly in their mother tongue; all persons are entitled to quality education and training that fully respect their cultural identity; and all persons have the right to participate in the cultural life of their choice and conduct their own cultural practices, subject to respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms", states article 5 of the UNESCO Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity (2001).
The grassroots campaign ‘Do One Thing For Diversity and Inclusion’, launched by UNESCO and the UN Alliance of Civilizations, celebrates the annual Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. The Facebook channel provides the opportunity for everyone interested to post the ‘thing’ they intend to do in support of diversity and inclusion. The goal is to create a million large worldwide grassroots movement of people who care and are willing to take action in support of these values.
Also marking this day, the International Festival for Cultural Diversity presents music and dance by internationally renowned artists Racha Arodaky and Shahrokh Moshkin Ghalam. The concert is set to take place on May 20 in Paris, France.
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