International Day of The World's Indigenous People

International Day of The World’s Indigenous People – August 9, 2024

International Day of The World’s Indigenous People

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous People, celebrated on August 9, honors indigenous communities around the globe. Recent data shows that about 370 to 500 million indigenous people live in 90 countries. These communities have their own unique languages, traditions, cultures, and governing systems. Many have followed their ancestral ways for centuries, and these practices continue to benefit them today. Indigenous peoples’ deep connection with nature has also helped protect the environment. However, many indigenous communities face challenges due to government efforts to control their lives, leading to violations of their rights, which disrupts their ability to live peacefully.

History of International Day of The World’s Indigenous People

The first International Day of the World’s Indigenous People was celebrated in August 1995. The day was established after the U.N. General Assembly passed resolution 49/214 on December 23, 1994. August 9 was chosen because it marked the first meeting of the U.N. Working Group on Indigenous Populations. Each year, governments and organizations observe this day by holding educational forums and conferences to discuss the social issues faced by indigenous groups. They also share information about ongoing and upcoming projects aimed at helping these communities. The theme changes yearly to highlight important topics, and in 2021, it was “Leaving no one behind: Indigenous peoples and the call for a new social contract.”

This theme calls for accountability in how the general population interacts with indigenous communities and their resources. Many indigenous groups have been negatively impacted by urban development projects that destroyed their lands without their consent. While organizations like the U.N. and UNESCO have pushed for constitutional and legislative reforms to protect indigenous rights, the focus must be on uniting everyone in this cause, ensuring no one is left behind. Additionally, various individuals, organizations, and businesses have created scholarships to provide more diverse groups with access to education.

International Day of The World’s Indigenous People timeline

International Day of The World’s Indigenous People FAQs

What was the 2021 theme for International Day of the World’s Indigenous People?
The theme for 2021 was “Leaving no one behind: Indigenous peoples and the call for a new social contract.”

Why do we celebrate International Day of the World’s Indigenous People?
We celebrate this day on August 9 each year to advocate for the rights of indigenous communities worldwide.

Who created International Day of the World’s Indigenous People?
The U.N. General Assembly established this day on December 23, 1994. August 9 was chosen because it marked the first meeting of the U.N. Working Group on Indigenous Populations.

How To Observe International Day of the World’s Indigenous People

1. Learn about indigenous groups
Learning about indigenous people is always fascinating. They have unique beliefs, customs, languages, and cultures, often deeply connected with nature, including animals, plants, trees, and water sources like lakes and rivers.

2. Learn an indigenous language
The U.N. declared 2022 to 2032 the decade for indigenous languages, aiming to raise awareness of languages at risk of disappearing. Many of these languages aren’t taught in schools or used widely. When a language is lost, a significant part of a people’s history and culture is lost too.

3. Stand by indigenous groups
A meaningful way to honor this day and beyond is to commit to supporting indigenous communities. Indigenous people have the right to live as they choose, just like anyone else. Standing up for their rights ultimately helps protect everyone’s rights.

5 Interesting Facts About Indigenous People

80% of the world’s biodiversity
About 80% of the world’s biodiversity is found in areas where indigenous groups live.

4,000 indigenous languages
The 5,000 indigenous communities around the world speak approximately 4,000 different languages.

High poverty rates
Although indigenous communities make up only 5% of the global population, they represent 15% of those living in poverty.

Short life spans
Indigenous communities often have shorter life spans due to preventable diseases like malaria and HIV, partly because of limited access to healthcare.

Leaders in protecting the environment
Research shows that the natural world, including plant and animal life, thrives in areas where indigenous people live.

Why International Day of the World’s Indigenous People is Important

A. It’s a celebration of indigenous people

Indigenous people are a vital part of our planet’s history and have significantly influenced how humans create systems for a fruitful life. Their unique cultures, customs, and traditions offer valuable insights into the universe and our broader understanding of life.

B. It’s a celebration of indigenous languages

Language shapes a people’s identity, revealing much about their history and origins through its phonetics, grammar, and usage. Indigenous languages are no exception, but they are endangered, so it’s crucial to work towards their preservation.

C. It’s a celebration of the freedom to live

Everyone deserves the right to live freely and practice their customs, traditions, and lifestyles on the land that has shaped their communities for centuries. Supporting indigenous peoples in their right to live and thrive as they choose is essential for respecting their freedom and well-being.