International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies

The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies aims to build a global community of action, encouraging countries to collaborate in tackling air pollution to protect our ecosystems. This day provides a platform for cooperation at individual, national, regional, and international levels to work together and invest in #CleanAirNow. The United Nations General Assembly designated 7 September as International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies in 2019, and the first Day was held in 2020. This designation reflects the global community’s growing awareness of air pollution risks and underscores the necessity of further efforts to improve air quality to safeguard human and environmental health.

Brazil Independence Day

Brazil Independence Day, or Sete de Setembro (7th of September), is celebrated annually on September 7 to commemorate the nation's declaration of independence from the United Kingdom of Portugal, Brazil, and the Algarves in 1822.

History

·  The path to independence began after French forces invaded Portugal in 1807 during the Napoleonic Wars. This prompted the Portuguese royal family to flee to their colony in Brazil.

·   While in Brazil, the Portuguese Prince Regent, Dom João VI, elevated Brazil's status from a colony to an equal kingdom within the United Kingdom of Portugal, Brazil, and the Algarves.

·  After the French were defeated, the royal family returned to Lisbon. However, Prince Dom Pedro was left as regent of Brazil. When the Portuguese parliament later demanded that Brazil revert to its former colonial status, Dom Pedro refused. On January 9, 1822, he declared his intention to stay in the country.

·    On September 7, 1822, Princess Maria Leopoldina sent a letter advising Dom Pedro to declare independence. Dom Pedro then famously proclaimed "Independência ou Morte!" ("Independence or Death!") near the Ipiranga River in São Paulo.

·   He was crowned Emperor Dom Pedro I of Brazil, and Portugal officially recognized Brazil's independence in 1825. 

Celebrations

·   Military parades: Grand civil-military parades led by the president are held in Brasília, the capital. They feature military vehicles, armed forces, and public security forces. Similar parades occur in state capitals and other cities.

·  Cultural events: Throughout the country, celebrations feature music, folk performances, and cultural activities. These vary by region, with some cities, like Salvador, incorporating Afro-Brazilian traditions into their festivals.

·    Patriotic displays: Brazilians show their national pride by flying the national flag from buildings and vehicles, and wearing clothing in the national colours of green, yellow, and blue.

·    Festivals and fireworks: Major cities often host public concerts and end the day with spectacular fireworks displays. Informal street parties, or blocos, are also common.

·    Traditional food: Families and friends gather for barbecues (churrasco) and other meals. They enjoy traditional Brazilian foods like feijoada and pão de queijo.