If I had to pick one word to summarize June’s days of awareness, it would be be People. As you read through the awareness raising that occurs this month please remember that each day, holds people with their own stories, experiences, hopes and dreams at the heart of the day.
Global Day of Parents – June 1, 2023
In 2012, the U.N. General Assembly declared the first-ever Global Day of Parents. Since then, it has been held annually on June 1 to honor parental units around the world. The Universal Peace Federation (UPF) supports the UN resolution noting that the family has the primary responsibility for the nurturing and protection of children and that children, for the full and harmonious development of their personality, should grow up in a family environment and in an atmosphere of happiness, love and understanding.
National Health and Fitness Day – June 3, 2023
National Health and Fitness Day (NHFD) is an initiative to challenge Canada to become the Fittest Nation on Earth, starting with making one day, the first Saturday in June, the day when Canadians get out and get active in any way they wish. With the long days of summer on the horizon, check out these tool kits to promote physical activity in the young and old Keep yourself updated with upcoming events on the social media platform here.
World Day Against Child Labour – June 12, 2023
12 June marks the World Day Against Child Labour under the theme “Universal Social Protection to End Child Labour.” On this day, the International Labour Organization (ILO), together with its constituents and partners, is calling for increased investment in social protection systems and schemes to establish solid social protection floors and protect children from child labour. Learn more about it from the Canadian Labour Congress website.
Elder Abuse Awareness Day – June 15, 2023
Elder abuse thrives in secrecy, isolation and silence, making it everyone’s responsibility to stand up for the human rights of older adults. Awareness of elder abuse is one of the best ways to prevent it. June 15, is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day To see what Canadians are doing or share your activity with communities across Canada, please visit the Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse website.
Juneteenth Day – June 19, 2023
More than 155 years ago, Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Texas to inform slaves that slavery had been abolished. But that was almost two and half years after President Lincoln proclaimed the Emancipation and outlawed slavery. Juneteenth has been celebrated by African Americans since its inception, with various traditions such as prayer services, parades, and family gatherings. The holiday has gained more widespread recognition in recent years, with several states making it an official state holiday and efforts to make it a national holiday.
The holiday is an important reminder of the struggles and injustices that African Americans have faced throughout American history and the ongoing fight for racial equality and justice. The legacy of slavery and racism continues to impact American society today, and the fight for racial justice and equality continues.
World Refugee Day – June 20, 2023
World Refugee Day is an international day designated by the United Nations to honour refugees around the globe. It serves to commemorate the strength, courage and resilience of millions of refugees that have been forced to flee their homes out of fear of persecution or to escape disasters. The day also aims to recognize refugees for their contribution to the world. Watch for updates on how to celebrate this year’s World Refugee Day in Canada on the UN Refugee Agency website.
National Indigenous People Day – June 21, 2023
June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day, a day for Canadians to come together, reflect on and celebrate the unique heritage, traditions, and knowledge of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. As allies we can support Indigenous culture by sharing and retweeting posts shared by Indigenous organizations and content creators. Read about the Minister’s Statement on National Indigenous Peoples Day here.
International Day of Widows – June 23, 2023
The United Nations observes 23 June as International Widows Day since 2011, to draw attention to the voices and experiences of widows and to galvanize the unique support that they need. Learn more about its history here.
Canadian Multiculturalism Day – June 27, 2023
On June 27, Canadian Multiculturalism Day honours the many cultural communities that help build a strong and vibrant Canadian society. Take this opportunity to celebrate the cultural diversity that enriches us collectively and reaffirm your commitment to equity, inclusion, and mutual respect. For more information, visit the following link: Canadian Multiculturalism Day.