National Fisherfolks Day - Philippines

 

National Fisherfolks Day is a holiday celebrated annually on May 31, in the Philippines. On this day, Filipinos all across the country get together to show their appreciation for those who are on the frontline of fishing and also those who have pledged to keep fishing sustainable, fighting against illegal practices within the community. Because the Philippines has an important fishing market, this day also brings awareness to the relevance of fisherfolk to the country’s economy.

History

Since 2000, National Fisherfolk Day is celebrated annually across the Philippines. It was through the Presidential Proclamation 261 series that the holiday became a federal celebration. The event’s goal is to bring awareness to the work done by thousands of people every day in the country. Since fishing is one of the main economical contributions to the Philippines, fisherfolk are responsible for providing food not only for their own families but for the entire country.

Not only that, but the holiday has, since 2015, also celebrated the sustainable actions taken by the government to prevent illegal practices and unregulated fishing within the coastal regions of the Philippines. There had been issues regarding illegal activities in the fishing market for a long time and in 2002 fisherfolk from eight different alliances came together to form the Fisherfolk Movement of the Philippines. The group demanded better regulations in the trade market, stronger policies regarding sustainable practices, and more unity among all small producers and fisherfolk in the country.

In 2005, this group promoted a “fluvial parade”, in which fisherfolk protested in Hong Kong at a World Trade Organization meeting. Another similar movement happened again in 2006. However, it was only in 2015, under the government of Benigno Aquino III, that the government finally took action and regulated the fishing market to have better conditions and better contain illegal practices with the Republic Act 10654.

 

 

World No Tobacco Day

 

World No Tobacco Day is observed every year on May 31. Initiated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1987, the day aims to create awareness about the health risks associated with tobacco use and advocate efficient policies to decrease tobacco consumption.

History

In 1987, the WHO passed Resolution WHA40.38 and called for April 7, 1988 to be "a world no-smoking day." This marked the 40th anniversary of the organisation and was the first steps taken for a broader movement.

After the success of the early no-smoking day, the WHO established Resolution WHA42.19 in 1988 and created World No Tobacco Day to be observed every year on May 31.

Significance

World No Tobacco Day plays an important role in raising awareness about the health risks associated with tobacco use. This includes the dangers of smoking and the use of other tobacco products, highlighting their connection to a range of health issues such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory illnesses.

World Parrot Day

 

World Parrot Day is celebrated on 31 May every year to raise awareness about parrots and their conservation. The World Parrot Trust (WPT) established this day in 2004. It is dedicated to the preservation of parrot species worldwide. World Parrot Day is celebrated to raise awareness about the threats that parrots face in the wild, and the steps that can be taken to mitigate these challenges. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting the parrot habitat and ecosystem. The day also encourages the public to take action to conserve these endangered creatures.

Parrots are tropical birds that are known for their vibrant plumage, distinctive loud voices, and remarkable intelligence. They have strong curved bills, upright stances, powerful legs, and unique zygodactyl feet. Due to these striking features, parrots are highly sought-after by collectors and pet owners worldwide. World Parrot Day presents an important opportunity to educate the public about the unique traits and habitats of parrots.

Goa Statehood Day

Situated on the west coast of India, Goa is the smallest state by area and a popular tourist destination, renowned for its breathtaking beaches.

It was a Portuguese colony for over 450 years until it was liberated by India in 1961 and was given the status of union territory along with Daman and Diu in 1987. However, later in 1987, Goa was granted statehood, making it the 25th state of the Indian Union.

Goa Statehood Day is celebrated annually on May 30, commemorating the day when Goa was declared a state separate from Daman and Diu in 1987.

The history of Goa dates back to 1510, when Alfonso de Albuquerque conquered the region, defeating Adil Shah of Bijapur. For the next 400 years, Goa remained under Portuguese rule. The Indian government then requested that the Portuguese cede their territories, but the Portuguese refused. In response, the Indian government launched Operation Vijay in 1961, annexing the Daman and Diu islands and Goa to the Indian mainland. This marked the end of Portuguese rule in Goa.

On May 30, 1987, the territory was split, and Goa was formed as the 25th state of the Republic of India. Panaji was designated as the capital of Goa, and Konkani was declared the official language. Since then, Goa Statehood Day has been observed annually on May 30.

Significance and Celebrations

The significance of this day lies in the fact that it marks the official integration of Goa as an official state into the Indian Union after centuries of Portuguese colonial rule. It is celebrated by various cultural events and celebrations across the state to honour Goa’s rich heritage and the sacrifices made during the struggle for liberation from Portuguese rule.

 

International Potato Day

 

Potato is a universally loved vegetable. It is easy to access, easy to cook and is cheap. This makes it accessible to all kinds of strata of society. Potatoes are used in making a variety of dishes – from being used in curries to fries to fritters. French fries, one of the most loved dishes across the world is made with potatoes. Potatoes can grow in any extreme conditions and are flexible in nature. This makes it one of the most advantageous crops to grow.

International Potato Day observed this year on May 30, for the very first time, is to create awareness about the nutritional value and the significance of potatoes as a staple food throughout the world.

History:

In December 2023, the General Assembly announced that May 30 will be observed as International Potato Day every year. Potatoes rank among the top five staple food items used throughout the world. The day will be celebrated to highlight the significance of potatoes from the Andean region to the world.

Significance:

"Potatoes are an important component of strategies to provide accessible and nutritious food and improved livelihoods in rural and other areas where natural resources, especially arable land and water are limited and inputs expensive. The crop's versatility and ability to grow in a variety of conditions make it an advantageous crop choice. Potatoes are also a climate-friendly crop, as they produce low levels of greenhouse gas emissions in comparison to other crops," wrote the United Nations on their official website. The theme for this year's International Potato Day is - Harvesting Diversity, Feeding Hope.

 

International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers

 

On the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, celebrated annually on May 29th, we honour the extraordinary contributions of peacekeepers towards international peace and security. Since the establishment of the first UN peacekeeping mission in 1948, more than two million peacekeepers have served in 71 missions, helping countries navigate from war to peace.

Current Peacekeeping Missions and Their Impact

Currently, over 76,000 peacekeepers from more than 120 countries are deployed across 11 global operations. Their hard work and commitment help foster peace and stability for millions affected by conflict. Despite evolving challenges, peacekeepers remain steadfast in safeguarding civilians, saving and transforming lives, and promoting peace.

Honouring the Establishment of UN Peacekeeping

The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers honours the establishment of the UN’s first peacekeeping mission, UNTSO, which was deployed in 1948. On this day, we recognize the bravery and commitment of all peacekeepers who serve globally and pay our respects to those who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace.

 

International Everest Day

International Everest Day is observed on May 29 every year in order to commemorate two brave climbers Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa who climbed the highest mountain in the world on 29 May 1953.

International Everest Day is an opportunity to honour the bravery and endurance of those who have attempted the climb and to inspire others to take risks and achieve their goals.

International Everest Day: History and significance

The day holds great significance as it reminds people to not get away from hard steps in their lives. Climbing a mountain at a time when little to no resources were available to these climbers. Hillary and Sherpa were in their early years when they left everything and joined the 1935 British Mount Everest reconnaissance expedition headed by Eric Shipton, an English Himalayan mountaineer.

International Everest Day: How to celebrate

There are various ways to celebrate International Everest Day. Here are a few suggestions:

Join a Local Mountain Club or Organization: Engage with people who climb mountains despite the challenges and risks. Listen to their stories and learn how they motivate themselves to face such challenges. Congratulate them on their achievements on International Everest Day.

Go Hiking or Camping: Experience the outdoors by hiking up a hill or going camping. Even if you are not a mountain climber, a hike can be a great way to celebrate the day. It’s a fun activity that promotes fitness. Ensure you are accompanied by experienced individuals who can assist if needed.

Watch Mountain Documentaries or Attend Workshops: Learn more about the history and culture of mountains by watching documentaries or attending educational workshops. These activities will help you appreciate the significance of International Everest Day and learn about the courageous people who have climbed Mount Everest.

International Everest Day: Importance

Regardless of how you choose to celebrate, International Everest Day is a significant opportunity to appreciate the beauty and fragility of the natural world.

World Otter Day 2024

 

Every year, on the last Wednesday of May (29^th of May this year), the world comes together to celebrate a unique and playful creature – the otter. World Otter Day is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about these fascinating animals, their habitats, and the threats they face. It’s a day to learn, share, and contribute to the conservation of otters, a species that brings joy to many and plays a crucial role in our ecosystem.

Beautiful, sleek and playful, otters are a joy to watch as they twist and dive in the water but sadly otter species are at risk worldwide. Otters are carnivorous mammals in the subfamily Lutrinae. The 13 otter species are all semiaquatic, aquatic, or marine. 12 of these species are decreasing; 7 of these are classed as vulnerable and 5 are endangered.

Otters are playful animals that exhibit a varied life cycle and can live up to 16 years. Their diet mainly consists of fish and sometimes frogs, birds, or shellfish, depending on the species. Otters are distinguished by their long, slim bodies, powerful webbed feet for swimming, and their dense fur, which keeps them warm and buoyant in water.

National Flag Day (Philippines)

 

National Flag Day (Philippines) is celebrated every year on May 28. It is observed as a national holiday in the Philippines in celebration of their independence from the Spanish. It was on this day in 1898, that the flag was hoisted for the first time and the nation came together to form the country’s first republic. The flag remains a symbol of patriotism and nationalism, and in the Philippines, it was a beacon of hope during the tyrannous times of the colonial era.

On this day in 1898, the nation’s flag was first unfurled on Philippine soil, an inspiring moment that followed after the triumph of the Philippine Revolutionary Army against the Spanish forces in the Battle of Alapan, in Imus, Cavite. This event planted the first seeds in the nation’s journey toward independence.

Recognizing this pivotal event in their history, President Diosdado Macapagal signed Presidential Proclamation No. 374 on March 6, 1965. This declared the “28th day of May each year as Flag Day and (enjoining) all government officials and employees as well as private citizens of the Philippines to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies.”

Building upon this foundation, President Fidel V. Ramos further “enhanced” the one-day event and issued Executive Order No. 179, signed on May 24, 1994. This EO extended the period of celebrating National Flag Day from May 28 to June 12. It mandated the “prominent display of the National Flag in all buildings, establishments, institutions of learning, and homes” and “all government departments, agencies, offices, government owned and controlled corporations, instrumentalities, and local government units.”

“The National Flag, which symbolizes patriotism, love of country, and sense of nationhood, and embodies the aspirations and sentiments of the Filipino people in their unceasing quest for freedom and independence, can be instrumental in raising the level of socio-civic consciousness of the Filipinos, especially among the youth,” the EO said.

Jawaharlal Nehru's Death Anniversary

 

Jawaharlal Nehru, who passed away on 27 May 1964, aged 74, was an Indian independence activist and the first Prime Minister of India, serving from 1947 until his death in 1964. A central figure in Indian politics before and after independence, Nehru was a protégé of Mahatma Gandhi and played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. His tenure as Prime Minister shaped India's path in the post-independence era, both in its internal development and its foreign policy.

Nehru was born into a wealthy Kashmiri Brahmin family in Allahabad. He was educated at home and in Britain, where he attended Harrow School and later, Cambridge University. He then trained as a barrister at the Inner Temple in London. Upon his return to India, he was drawn into the Indian National Congress and the nationalist struggle against British rule.

Under Gandhi's guidance, Nehru became a prominent leader in the Congress Party. He actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement in the 1920s and the Civil Disobedience Movement in the 1930s. Nehru was imprisoned several times by the British authorities for his role in the independence movement.

As Prime Minister, Nehru worked to shape a modern, secular, and democratic India. He emphasized social and economic development, launching plans to industrialize the economy, improve agricultural productivity, and expand access to education and healthcare. His government also undertook major projects to build infrastructure and develop heavy industry.

Nehru's foreign policy was marked by the principles of non-alignment during the Cold War. He was a founding figure of the Non-Aligned Movement, advocating for an independent course for India in international affairs, as free as possible from the influence of the major Cold War powers.

Nehru was also a noted writer and thinker, and his works, including The Discovery of India and Glimpses of World History, reflect his insight into Indian history and culture, as well as world affairs. He also wrote Letters from a Father to His Daughter (1929) while he was imprisoned.

Guyana Independence Day

 

Independence Day is a national holiday in the Co-Operative Republic of Guyana on May 26th.

This holiday commemorates Guyana gaining its independence on May 26th 1966.

Unusually, this is not Guyana's National Day, that takes place on February 23rd marking the country becoming a republic on that date in 1970.

History of Guyana Independence Day

Christopher Columbus was the first European to sight Guyana during his third voyage in 1498. Sir Walter Raleigh reported on the region in 1596, but it was the Dutch who first established colonies, importing African slaves to work on sugar plantations.

The British took control of the Dutch colonies during the Napoleonic Wars, creating a single colony known as British Guiana in 1831.

Trade unions formed after the first world war, with political parties emerging after the second world war along with political awareness and demands for independence.

A new constitution heralded the first elections in 1953 and a degree of self-government by the end of the 1950s.

Guyana achieved independence from the United Kingdom on May 26th 1966.

 

Georgia Independence Day

 

Georgia Independence Day is an annual public holiday in Georgia that is observed on 26 May. It honours the 26th May 1918 adoption of the Act of Independence. The Democratic Republic of Georgia was established on this day in the aftermath of the Russian Revolution of 1917. 

History of Georgia Independence Day

26th May marks a very important day in the history of Georgia. Georgia carries a long and rich history, dating back to the 6th century BC. The country has been overrun and occupied by many different empires over the centuries. 

Georgia was annexed by the Russian Empire in the 19th century and its independence journey started with the Russian Revolution in 1917. The revolution began to oppose widespread corruption, growing dissatisfaction among people and the monarchy. 

It began on March 8, 1917, which was during the First World War, and lasted for a few years. After this revolution on this day in 1918, Georgia declared independence. 

However, this independence didn’t last long as Georgia was again invaded by the Soviet Russian army in 1921 and had to incorporate into the newly formed Soviet Socialist Republics.

Forwarding 70 years later, in April 1991 the Soviet Union collapsed and Georgia regained independence.  

This is why May 26 continued to be Independence Day and April 9 was declared as the Day of National Unity, Civic Concordance, and Remembrance. Both days are celebrated as national holidays.

Independence Day of Jordan

 

Independence Day is the National Holiday of Jordan and is celebrated annually on May 25th.

Known as 'Eid al-Istiklaal', the holiday marks the independence of Jordan on May 25th 1946 when British control ended and Jordan was declared a Kingdom.

History of Jordanian Independence Day

After the end of the first world war, the emirate of Transjordan was officially formed from the British Mandate of Palestine in 1922 and was officially recognised by the Council of the League of Nations in 1922. As-Sayyid Abdullah bin al-Husayn was nominated as Emir, but many aspects of the rule of the country remained under British control.

Following the second world war, the British pushed for an end to their mandate in the region and on May 25th 1946, the United Nations approved the end to the British Mandate and Jordan became an independent sovereign state officially known as The Hashemite Kingdom of Transjordan.

The Transjordanian Parliament declared as-Sayyid Abdullah bin al-Husayn as King Abdullah I, the first monarch of the Hashemite Empire.

After capturing parts of Jerusalem and the West Bank during the 1948 Arab–Israeli War, King Abdullah I took the title King of Jordan. The name of the state was changed to The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on December 1st 1948.

Bermuda Day 2024

Bermuda Day is a public holiday in Bermuda, and being observed this year on May 24. It is celebrated on the Friday before the last Monday in May. This effectively always makes it the fourth Friday in May.

Bermuda Day is traditionally the first day of the year that residents will go into the sea. It is also traditionally the first day on which Bermuda shorts are worn as business attire (although in recent years, Bermuda shorts are increasingly worn at any time of the year). Many people also see Bermuda Day as the first day on which they can go out on the water after the winter^] — consequently there is always a rush to get one's boat 'in de water' before Bermuda Day.

To celebrate the holiday, there is a parade in Hamilton, Bermuda and a road race from the west end of the island into Hamilton. For the first time, in 2015, the race started from St George's and into Hamilton. These events are popular with spectators, and residents are known to stake out particular sections of the pavements to enable them to watch the runners and the floats. Ways of marking out one's family's section can include roping it off (frowned on as people have been hurt walking into them the night before), marking it off with tape with one's name on it, or sleeping there overnight.

Independence Day of Eritrea

 

The Independence Day of Eritrea is one of the most important public holidays in the country. It is observed on May 24 every year. On this day in 1991, Eritrean People’s Liberation Front forces moved into the capital Asmara, reinstating independence, following a 30-year war against the Ethiopian military regime. Eritrea Independence Day is a national holiday, with workers given a day off.

Independence Day is always celebrated on May 24 of every year in Eritrea. But the festivities are a week-long leading up to May 24 so it is referred to as “Independence Week’’or qinyat natsnet. The week-long festivities are marked by carnivals, street performances, sporting competitions, cycling races, musical concerts, parades, tent parties, much flag-waving and many displays of patriotism.

World Turtle Day

 

Turtles and tortoises are often confused with each other, but they are distinct creatures with unique characteristics. Both play crucial roles in maintaining and enhancing ecosystem health.

World Turtle Day, celebrated annually on May 23, aims to increase awareness about the habitats and lifestyles of turtles and tortoises, encouraging people to support their conservation.

History:

American Tortoise Rescue is an organisation that helps in wellbeing and rescue of tortoises and turtles. Learning the differences between the two creatures is the first step in understanding them better. Every year, World Turtle Day is observed on May 23. It was started in the year 2000 by American tortoise Rescue as a way of urging people to come together to understand tortoises and turtles better.

Significance:

Tortoises live on land, while turtles live in water. Tortoises can live up to 300 years, while the lifespan of turtles is 40 years. However, despite the differences, both turtles and tortoises play significant roles in the ecosystem. Turtles feed on dead fish that wash up on the shore while tortoises dig up holes that are inhabited by other creatures.

Buddha Purnima 2024

 

Buddha Purnima (also known as Buddha Jayanti or Buddha Day) marks the birth of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who became the Gautama Buddha and founded Buddhism. This year, Buddha Purnima falls on May 23 marking the 2586th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha.

Gautama Buddha is said to have been born in Lumbini, Nepal, between 563 and 483 BCE, based on Buddhist tradition and archaeological discoveries. His mother, Queen Maya Devi, gave birth to him during a journey to her ancestral home, while his father was King Suddhodana. The Mayadevi Temple, along with its surrounding gardens and an Ashoka Pillar dating back to 249 BCE, marks the site of Buddha's birth in Lumbini.

The important day is observed by Buddhists worldwide and is a major festival in countries in most of South, Southeast and East Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Thailand, China, Korea, Laos, Vietnam, Mongolia, Cambodia, Indonesia, and more.

It is observed on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Vaisakha, which falls in April or May. Buddhists celebrate the day with great devotion and joy, participating in various ceremonies and rituals.

International Day for Biological Diversity

Biodiversity, the incredible variety of living organisms that inhabit our planet, is the foundation upon which human existence and well-being depend. This concept, first coined by Walter G. Rosen in 1985, encompasses the diversity of all life forms.

However, in recent decades, biodiversity has faced numerous threats, including habitat loss and fragmentation, overexploitation of natural resources, pollution, invasive species, and climate change, which is being driven by human activities and has led to the extinction of many species and the degradation of ecosystems worldwide.

To address this pressing issue and raise awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity, the United Nations established the International Day for Biological Diversity.

International Day of Biodiversity: Origin and Significance

The International Day for Biological Diversity traces its roots back to a pivotal decision made by the United Nations General Assembly in 2000. The primary goal behind this initiative was to champion the preservation and sustainable utilisation of the diverse array of life on our planet.

Originally marked on December 29th, the UN General Assembly opted to shift the observance to May 22nd in 2000. This date holds special significance as it commemorates the momentous adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, back in 1992.

This annual celebration serves as a platform to shine a spotlight on the crucial role that biodiversity plays in upholding the delicate equilibrium of ecosystems. By underscoring the importance of united conservation efforts, the International Day for Biological Diversity seeks to motivate individuals, communities, and nations to step up and protect the rich tapestry of life that sustains our planet.

International Tea Day

 

Each year on May 21, tea lovers around the world come together to celebrate International Tea Day. It is the day to honour a beverage steeped deep in global history and culture. This day isn’t always simply about sipping on your favourite brew; it is an important reminder of the social and financial aspects of tea production and on emphasising the need for sustainable practices.

The inaugural International Tea Day celebration took place in 2005 in the fundamental tea-producing nations like India Sri Lanka Nepal and Kenya to focus on the plight of tea people and the changing tea marketplace.

“The tea industry is a main source of income and export revenues for some of the poorest countries and, as a labour-intensive sector, provides jobs, especially in remote and economically disadvantaged areas,” reports the United Nations.

Recognising this issue, in 2019, the UN formally declared May 21 as the International Tea Day. This underscores the beverage’s significance beyond its regular consumption linking it to global financial balance and cultural history.

The significance of tea in global cultures

Tea is more than a beverage; it is an integral part of cultures throughout the globe. In Britain, the afternoon tea lifestyle is nearly sacrosanct. At the same time, in Japan, the tea ceremony is an art form and a meditative exercise.

In China tea has been an image of concord and enlightenment for centuries. Economically the tea industry sustains hundreds of thousands of livelihoods specifically in rural areas.

In India too, tea is not only one of the most consumed beverages but also an important part of relaxation time amidst work and busy days.

World Bee Day

 

World Bee Day is observed on May 20 annually with an aim to raise awareness about the essential role of bees and other pollinators in maintaining the health of our planet, ensuring food security, and promoting biodiversity and sustainable agriculture.

World Bee Day – History

World Bee Day was established after Slovenia’s successful proposal to the United Nations in December 2017. The date, May 20, marks the birth anniversary of Anton Janša, a pioneer of modern beekeeping, who was born in 1734. With the support of the Slovenian Government and NGO Apimondia, the UN General Assembly adopted this day to honour the significance of bees and other pollinators. The inaugural World Bee Day was celebrated on May 20, 2018.

Significance of World Bee Day

Bees play a pivotal role in the environment by pollinating plants, which supports agriculture, promotes biodiversity, and ensures the survival of many plant species. Beekeeping is also a vital occupation that provides livelihoods for millions of people worldwide. Unfortunately, bee populations are declining at an alarming rate due to factors such as habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. World Bee Day highlights the need to protect these essential creatures and promotes sustainable practices to safeguard their future.

How is World Bee Day Celebrated?

World Bee Day is celebrated in various ways to raise awareness and support for bees and beekeeping:

• Educational Visits: People can visit local beekeepers to learn more about their work and the importance of bees.
• Bee Farming: Setting up small bee farms in gardens or terraces can support bee populations.
• Honey Products: Enjoying and purchasing honey and other bee-based products from local beekeepers helps support their livelihood.
• Costume and Competitions: Dressing up like bees, participating in bee-related activities, and spreading awareness through fun competitions and events.
• Environmental Support: Supporting beekeeping charities and organizations that focus on bee conservation.

Interesting Facts About Bees

To celebrate World Bee Day, here are some fascinating facts about bees:

• Bees communicate through dancing.
• Honey bees can fly up to six miles at 15 miles per hour.
• An average bee produces only about one teaspoon of honey in its lifetime.
• To make one kilogram of honey, bees must fly approximately 90,000 miles and visit around two million flowers.
• Only female bees sting, and they die after stinging.
• Bees beat their wings 11,400 times per minute, creating their characteristic buzzing sound.
• There are over 20,000 different species of bees globally, except in Antarctica.
• Bees are the only social insects that are partially domesticated by humans.
• A honey bee visits between 50 to 100 flowers during a single collection trip.
• Bees have jointed legs but do not have knees.