August 9 - International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

The world commemorates the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples to shed light on Indigenous communities’ unique cultures, histories and struggles worldwide. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1994, the day serves as a reminder of indigenous peoples’ ongoing challenges while celebrating their rich diversity and contributions to society. Indigenous cultures represent a vast tapestry of languages, traditions, knowledge systems, and spiritual beliefs that enrich humanity. By recognizing and celebrating these diverse cultures, the day promotes respect for indigenous heritage and fosters cultural dialogue and understanding, encouraging us to appreciate and respect the unique contributions of each indigenous community.

Historical Context and Importance
The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples was established to promote and protect the rights of indigenous populations worldwide. It marks the anniversary of the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982. Since then, the day has evolved into a platform for raising awareness about Indigenous communities’ unique challenges, including land rights, cultural preservation, discrimination, and political representation. It also serves as a testament to the resilience of these communities, which continue to thrive despite these challenges. 

Recognition of Indigenous Rights
One of the primary reasons this day is essential lies in its role in advocating for indigenous rights. With the challenges mentioned above, Indigenous peoples continue to confront numerous challenges, including forced displacement, environmental degradation, and the impacts of climate change. The International Day serves as a platform to highlight these pressing issues and advocate for sustainable solutions that respect indigenous rights and priorities. These solutions could include land rights recognition, community-based conservation, and climate change adaptation strategies incorporating indigenous knowledge. For countries with significant indigenous populations, the International Day also plays a role in advancing reconciliation efforts and promoting justice for historical injustices. It encourages governments to engage in meaningful dialogue with indigenous communities to address past grievances and build inclusive societies based on mutual respect and equality. The International Day serves as a time to reaffirm commitments to uphold these rights and address issues such as access to healthcare, education, and justice. It is a day that calls for our empathy and support, reminding us of the ongoing struggles of Indigenous communities and our collective responsibility to stand in solidarity with them.

Indigenous Peoples Day is also a time to acknowledge the substantial contributions to various fields, including environmental conservation, medicine, agriculture, and the arts. Education and awareness are not just important, but crucial components of the International Day. Through events, seminars, and cultural performances, the day aims to educate the public about Indigenous issues and foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by these communities. It encourages people to reflect on their roles in promoting respect, tolerance, and solidarity with Indigenous peoples, including learning about Indigenous cultures, supporting Indigenous initiatives, and advocating for their rights, thereby empowering us with the knowledge and responsibility to contribute to a more just and inclusive world.

Looking Ahead
We can contribute to a future where Indigenous peoples are empowered to thrive while preserving their unique identities and contributions to humanity. International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is not just a commemoration but a call to action—a reminder of our collective responsibility to respect, protect, and promote the rights and cultures of Indigenous peoples worldwide. It invites us to reflect on how we can contribute to a more just and inclusive world where all peoples, including indigenous communities, can live with dignity and equality.

For more information about International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, visit the United Nation’s website at https://www.un.org/en/observances/indigenous-day/resources

August 26th - Women's Equality Day

Women's Equality Day commemorates the 1920 adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which prohibits denying US citizens the right to vote based on gender. The Constitution of the United States drafted in 1776 and ratified in 1789, did not initially grant women the right to vote.  Women obtained voting privileges in 1920 through the ratification of the 19th Amendment by a majority of states, which became effective a week later on August 26, 1920, roughly 130 years later.

Noteworthy New York Fact:
Representative Bella S. Abzug, also known as “Battling Bella,” was a highly respected member of Congress (D-NY) who served as an outspoken advocate for women’s rights for many years.  She is credited with sparking the international feminist movement.  During her early years as a Congresswoman, in 1971, Representative Abzug spearheaded an effort to designate a specific day to commemorate the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which granted women the right to vote.  This initiative was successful, and in 1973, the U.S. Congress proclaimed August 26 as Women’s Equality Day.

Women’s Equality Day extends beyond recognizing women’s right to vote.  It acknowledges the ongoing struggle to establish it as a fundamental human right and to achieve gender equality in various facets of life, including society, education, employment, politics, religion, and all decision-making realms.

Here are some ways you can celebrate Women’s Equality Day!

• Provide connections to support groups and professional empowerment groups in the legal industry
• Audit your staff to see if there are any gender or pay parities.
• Start a mentorship program to allow women to engage with and learn from senior women leaders
• Connect with and support a local nonprofit organization that supports women.
• Pick a book focusing on feminism and women’s rights and have an impromptu book club.

https://www.doi.gov/pmb/eeo/womens-equality-day

https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/womens-equality-day-infographic.pdf

https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/resources/commemorations/womens-equality-day