By Katie Mahon, Communications Manager
This week’s “Embracing Faith” article will focus on Embracing Faith through Advocacy.
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic,
love one another, be compassionate, and be humble.”
-1 Peter 3:8
Today, December 20th, marks International Human Solidarity Day, an annual observance by the United Nations that promotes a culture of solidarity and a spirit of sharing to combat poverty. (1)
The UN General Assembly has also designated International Human Solidarity Day as:
a day to celebrate our unity in diversity;
a day to remind governments to respect their commitments to international agreements;
a day to raise public awareness of the importance of solidarity;
a day to encourage debate on the ways to promote solidarity for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, including poverty eradication;
a day of action to encourage new initiatives for poverty eradication. (1)
International Human Solidarity Day was first established in the UN’s Millennium Declaration because solidarity was viewed “as one of the fundamental values of international relations in the 21st Century, wherein those who either suffer or benefit least deserve help from those who benefit most. Consequently, in the context of globalization and the challenge of growing inequality, strengthening international solidarity is indispensable.” (1)
Over the past few years, efforts to promote and raise awareness of International Human Solidarity Day have resulted in the establishment of the World Solidarity Fund “to eradicate poverty.” This fund, along with the proclamation of International Human Solidarity Day, is “crucial in the fight against poverty and in the involvement of all relevant stakeholders.” (1)
To learn more about International Human Solidarity Day, click here.