The following calendar is an updated attempt to compile a list of days on which people worldwide commemorate human rights; fighters for rights are honoured, abuses of human rights are remembered and hopes and joy are celebrated. The key dates have been gathered from official UN International Days, World Days recognised by NGOs, anniversaries of historical events and birthdays of some prominent human rights activists. It is not to be taken as a complete or definitive list but as a starting point, and you are encouraged to add your own memorable dates.
The calendar can be copied and made into a poster to hang on the wall to stimulate initial interest in human rights issues, especially as it gives a good indication of their range and variety. Invite people to comment: Do all the events commemorated mean something to them? What local and national key dates would they like to add?
Each activity in Chapter 2 has been assigned a key date. The intention is that the calendar can be used as a tool for developing a year’s human rights education programme. The starting point of each week or month could be a “topical” activity. For example on 3 May, World Press Freedom Day, you could do the activity «Front page»,or on 25 November, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, you could do the activity «Domestic Affairs». Alternatively, the group may wish to “take action” by getting involved in events or activities being organised by other organisations on those dates, for example with an environmental group to celebrate Earth Day on 22 April.
If you want some initial ideas for taking action then look at the «A-Z of Actions» in the All Different – All Equal Education pack. For tips and guidelines on taking effective action read Chapter 3, «Taking action» in this manual.
Just as the understanding of human rights develops every year, so should this calendar. The challenge for you - the users of this manual - is to find new ways of celebrating human rights every single day of the year.