​

First week of December

Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week

• Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week (AAAW) is a week-long event in Canada dedicated to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS within Indigenous communities. It typically takes place in early December. The week aims to promote education, reduce stigma, and encourage testing and prevention efforts related to HIV/AIDS among Indigenous peoples.

 

• During Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week, various activities and events are organized, including educational workshops, community discussions, cultural events, and outreach programs. These initiatives are designed to address the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities concerning HIV/AIDS, such as cultural factors, socioeconomic issues, and access to healthcare.

 

2- International Day for the Abolition of Slavery

• The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is observed annually on December 2nd. 

• This day was designated by the United Nations to raise awareness about the persistence of modern slavery and to promote efforts to eradicate all forms of slavery around the world.

• The date of December 2nd was chosen to coincide with the date of the adoption of the UN Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others, which was originally adopted in 1949.

• The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery provides an opportunity for governments, organizations, and individuals to reflect on the importance of eliminating contemporary forms of slavery, including forced labor, human trafficking, and child labor. It also serves as a reminder of the historical struggles against slavery and the ongoing need for collective action to combat this grave violation of human rights.

 

3- United Nations International Day of Disabled Persons

• This day aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development.

• The observance of the International Day of Disabled Persons started in 1992, following the proclamation of the United Nations General Assembly's resolution 47/3. 

• The day provides an opportunity to increase awareness and understanding of disability issues and to celebrate the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities.

• Each year, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities has a specific theme to focus on a particular aspect of disability rights and inclusion. The themes often address issues such as accessibility, inclusion, empowerment, and the promotion of equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.

• The day encourages governments, organizations, and communities to take positive actions to create inclusive environments and remove barriers that may prevent the full participation of people with disabilities in social, economic, and political life. It also serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to ensure the full realization of the rights of persons with disabilities as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

 

5- International Volunteer Day

• International Volunteer Day (IVD) is observed annually on December 5th. 

• It is a day designated by the United Nations to celebrate and recognize the contributions of volunteers worldwide. 

• The day provides an opportunity to promote volunteerism, encourage people to engage in volunteer activities, and raise awareness about the impact volunteers make in their communities and beyond.

• International Volunteer Day acknowledges the selfless efforts of individuals and groups who dedicate their time, skills, and energy to address social, economic, and environmental challenges. 

• Volunteers contribute to a wide range of causes, including poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, environmental conservation, disaster relief, and more.

• The day serves as a platform to highlight the importance of volunteerism in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and building more inclusive and resilient societies. 

• The theme for International Volunteer Day may vary each year, focusing on specific aspects of volunteerism and social impact. It is a time to express gratitude for the dedication and generosity of volunteers and to promote the value of volunteer work in creating positive change.

 

6th - National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women

• The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, also known as White Ribbon Day, is observed annually in Canada on December 6th. This day commemorates the tragic events that occurred at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal on December 6, 1989, when 14 women were murdered simply because they were women.

• The anniversary of this devastating event serves as a day to remember and honor the lives of these women and to reflect on the broader issue of gender-based violence. It is also an occasion for Canadians to take action to prevent and eliminate violence against women.

• In addition to memorial events, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women often includes initiatives to raise awareness about the various forms of violence that disproportionately affect women, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, and harassment. The day aims to mobilize individuals and communities to work towards creating a society free from gender-based violence and to promote gender equality.

• Many people wear white ribbons on this day as a symbol of their commitment to ending violence against women. 

• The observance of this day is an integral part of broader efforts in Canada and around the world to address and eradicate gender-based violence.

 

10 - World Human Rights Day

• World Human Rights Day is observed annually on December 10th.

•  This day commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. The UDHR is a foundational document that outlines fundamental human rights to be universally protected.

• World Human Rights Day serves as a moment to reaffirm the global commitment to human rights principles and to raise awareness about the ongoing challenges and violations of human rights around the world. The day emphasizes the importance of upholding the inherent dignity and equal rights of all individuals, regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or any other characteristic.

• Various events and activities are organized on World Human Rights Day to promote awareness, education, and advocacy for human rights. 

• The day often focuses on specific themes or issues related to human rights violations, activism, and the promotion of justice and equality.

• World Human Rights Day encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to reflect on their roles in upholding human rights and to take concrete actions to address violations and promote a more just and inclusive world.

•  It is an opportunity for people to stand in solidarity with those whose rights are threatened or violated and to advocate for a world where human rights are universally respected and protected.

 

17 - International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers

• December 17th is recognized as the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers. 

• This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the violence and harm that sex workers often face and advocating for the rights and safety of sex workers globally.

• The day also honors the lives of sex workers who have experienced violence, including those who have been victims of hate crimes, discrimination, and abuse.

•  Advocates use this day to call for an end to the stigma and discrimination faced by sex workers and to promote policies and practices that protect their human rights and well-being.