International Day for Tolerance

In 1996, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 51/95 proclaiming 16 November as International Day for Tolerance. This action followed the adoption of a Declaration of Principles on Tolerance by UNESCO's Member States on 16 November 1995. Among other things, the Declaration affirms that tolerance is neither indulgence nor indifference. It is respect and appreciation of the rich variety of our world's cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human. Tolerance recognizes the universal human rights and fundamental freedoms of others. 

Today people around the world celebrate the International Day of Tolerance. Tolerance recognizes the universal human rights and fundamental freedoms of others. People are naturally diverse and this day offers an opportunity to reflect on the importance of mutual understanding and dialogue. There are many ways you can celebrate this day, with two simple suggestions below.  

Read About Different Cultures: Reading about different cultures or nationalities is one of the best ways to help break down your intolerances that you may not know you have. In order to celebrate tolerance, you may often need to first make yourself aware of intolerance.

Listen to Neighbors Who Have Different Viewpoints: Listening to others is a great way to open your perspective and take a better look at the world and how you perceive it. Start a conversation with someone with a differing viewpoint, you’ll likely find you have more in common than you expected.