As we review the dates we want to bring attention to during June, we are overwhelmed by the struggles and stories it took to bring some of these days to fruition. Imagine the tenacity and energy it took to dedicate a day like World Day Against Child Labour, Juneteenth Day, and National Indigenous People Day. There are also moments to celebrate as we note the Global Day of Parents and the ongoing achievements made by Women in Science.
There are many important days of awareness this month, all motivating us to reflect and consider how we as individuals can call on our governments, our communities and ourselves to advocate for others.
Global Day of Parents – June 1
In 2012 the UN general assembly assembled the global day of parents. This day’s purpose is to honour parents; it is an opportunity to appreciate all the parents worldwide and their commitment and sacrifice towards their children. To learn more, visit: https://www.un.org/en/observances/parents-day
National Health and Fitness Day – June 4
The national health and fitness day became active in December 2014. It challenges Canadians to get up, get out, and get active as Canada has an inactivity crisis. They want Canada to become the healthiest and fittest country. Learn more on: https://www.nhfdcan.ca
World Day Against Child Labour – June 12
The World Day Against Child Labour is an international labour organization holiday first held on June 12, 2002. Governments, organizations, employers, and people around the world recognize this day. Its purpose is to raise awareness and take necessary actions to prevent child labour. Learn more: https://www.un.org/en/observances/world-day-against-child-labour/action
Elder Abuse Awareness Day – June 15
Elder Abuse Day is a UN international day; its purpose is to recognize that elder abuse is a severe human rights issue and must be acknowledged by public health. This day people worldwide honour this day by organizing events, bringing attention to the subject, sharing information, and promoting resources to increase elders’ safety and well-being. Click the link to learn more about the subject: https://cnpea.ca/en/what-is-elder-abuse/world-elder-abuse-awareness-day
Juneteenth Day – June 19
The Juneteenth day is when the ending of slavery in the United States is celebrated. In 1865 the union soldiers declared the end of the war and the freedom of the enslaved. On June 19, many activities took place and turned into a tradition. They include fishing, barbecuing, baseball and rodeos. However, there has been a decline in the Juneteenth celebrations in today’s society. For more information, visit: https://www.juneteenth.com/history/
World Refugee Day – June 20
On this day, the world celebrates the bravery of individuals who were forced to flee their homes due to crises such as war. It acknowledges the hardship of these people and the strengths they have to rebuild their lives. In 2021 the theme for world refugee day was Together, we heal, learn and shine. To learn more about the 2022 theme, visit: https://www.unhcr.org/world-refugee-day.html
National Indigenous People Day – June 21
National Indigenous peoples day is where Canadians celebrate the heritage, culture, and contributions of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, also known as Aboriginals or Indigenous peoples. Each group has their own unique, diverse culture. Together the government of Canada and the Indigenous organizations declared this day as a national aboriginal day. To learn more, visit: https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1100100013718/1534874583157
International Day of Widows – June 23
Since 2011 the UN has declared June 23 as the official widow’s day. It aims to share the voices and experiences of widows and support them. It also provides information on inheritance, land, productive resources, social protection, decent work and equal pay. Also, it raises awareness so governments can take action to ensure the rights of widows. To learn more, visit: https://www.un.org/en/observances/widows-day
Canadian Multiculturalism Day – June 27
Canada is known to be a very welcoming, diverse and multicultural country. On this day, Canada celebrates its diversity and the history that led to it. This day recognizes the contributions of diverse ethnic groups to Canadian society. To learn more, visit: https://www.dcrs.ca/everyone-belongs-here-on-canadian-multiculturalism-day/