International Day for Tolerance glorifies the term ‘tolerance’ which refers to the acceptance of different minds and opinions, cultures and diversities throughout the world. International Day for Tolerance is observed on 16 November, every year. Tolerance broadens the dignity and liberty of people. It is also seen as an act of humanity.
World Tolerance Day Theme
The first ‘World Tolerance Summit’ was held in Dubai, UAE on 15-16 November 2024. The target of the summit was to promote tolerance and peace over the world as per the UNESCO declaration. The theme for World Tolerance Summit 2024 was “Prospering from Pluralism: Embracing Diversity through Innovation and Collaboration”.
History of International Day of Tolerance
The history of International Day for Tolerance dates back to the 1996 when UN General Assembly declared 16 November to be the International Day for Tolerance by passing Resolution 51/95. This step was taken after the Member States of UNESCO adopted a Declaration of Principles on Tolerance on 16 November 16 1995. The Declaration declares that tolerance is neither indulgence nor indifference. It is a respect for and appreciation of the wide range of cultures, modes of expression, and way of expressing humanity. The fundamental liberties and inherent rights of people are acknowledged through tolerance. Because people are naturally different, only tolerance can guarantee the survival of mixed-race communities across the globe.
Significance of International Day for Tolerance
The theme of International Day of Tolerance has not been officially announced yet. The significance of celebrating the day is to raise awareness about the tolerance and its impact on cultures and socio-economic groups. Tolerance should be promoted on both personal as well as professional level to make the world a better place to live.
On the International Day of Tolerance, let us identify the growing threat posed by those who intend to divide and work towards strengthening the culture of tolerance.
Let us pledge to promote a path that is solely based on mutual understanding, dialogue, and social cohesion.
International Day for Tolerance Activities
Doesn’t matter where we dwell in, our surroundings are full of diversities. Even in a small group of people, there will be dozens of cultural or spiritual differences. To learn to respect is the main purpose of celebrating International Day for Tolerance. Here are some ways in which you can also participate on this occasion:
Saying ‘No’ to violence: Most of the hate crimes are occurred due to intolerance. If we practice respecting other’s ethics and values, it is less likely to happen such violation of personal rights.
Making debates: Debates are always a peaceful way to resolve any issue. You don’t agree with someone that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to disrespect or harm them.
Art exhibitions: Different types of arts can be showcased to picture the importance of diversity for our existence.
International Day for Tolerance Quotes
Let’s see some beautiful quotes regarding International Day for Tolerance.
“It is not for me to judge another man’s life. I must judge, I must choose, I must spurn, purely for myself. For myself, alone.” – Herman Hesse
“The highest result of education is tolerance.” – Helen Keller
“Tolerance of intolerance is cowardice.” – Ayaan Hirsi Ali
“In order to have faith in his own path, he does not need to prove that someone else’s path is wrong.” [Paulo Coelho].
“If a profound gulf separates my neighbor’s belief from mine, there is always the golden bridge of tolerance.” [Anon].
“In the practice of tolerance, one’s enemy is the best teacher.” [Dalai Lama XIV].
“No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” [Nelson Mandela].
“If civilization is to survive, we must cultivate the science of human relationships – the ability of all peoples, of all kinds, to live together, in the same world at peace.” [Franklin D. Roosevelt].
“Tolerance isn’t about not having beliefs. It’s about how your beliefs lead you to treat people who disagree with you.” [Timothy Keller].
“ Tolerance implies no lack of commitment to one’s own beliefs. Rather it condemns the oppression or persecution of others.” [John F. Kennedy].
“The only way to make sure people you agree with can speak is to support the rights of people you don’t agree with.” [Eleanor Holmes Norton].
World Tolerance Day Speech
It is a day to remind everyone of the dignity of the very individual. Respecting different opinions will make us more human resulting in a peaceful world where no one will be afraid of expressing their true colors. Violence can never be an option, in any circumstances. Every life is precious and full of possibilities. We don’t have the right to overtake anyone’s independence. Unless and until someone is doing something illegal, they have the right to go to any extent. Please be more careful about your words and activities to others.
Let ‘Being tolerant and respectful’ to be our motto in this International Day for Tolerance.
