Mexico is a country that stands out for its rich culture and traditions, which are manifested in a wide variety of festivities throughout the year. In addition to national holidays, Mexico has also adopted the celebration of numerous world days promoted by international organizations, such as the United Nations, in order to raise awareness among the population about different global causes and issues.
Below, we will explore some of the most significant world days and how they are celebrated in Mexico.
1. International Women's Day (March 8)
International Women's Day is one of the most recognized and celebrated days in Mexico. This date, which is commemorated on March 8, has its roots in the labor movement and has become a day of vindication of women's rights and the fight for gender equality.
In Mexico, this day is celebrated with marches and demonstrations in the main cities of the country, especially in Mexico City. Women of all ages and from different sectors of society unite to demand an end to gender violence, equal pay, and equal opportunities in all areas of life. In addition, forums, conferences, and cultural activities are organized to raise awareness among the population about the importance of gender equality.
Iconic monuments such as the Angel of Independence are often illuminated with purple lights, a symbol of the feminist movement, and commemorative events are held at educational and cultural institutions. In recent years, participation in this day has grown significantly, reflecting the growing awareness and mobilization around women's rights in Mexico.
2. World Environment Day (June 5)
World Environment Day is another date that has gained great importance in Mexico. This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972 and aims to raise awareness among the population about the importance of protecting the environment and promoting actions that contribute to sustainable development.
In Mexico, World Environment Day is celebrated with various activities involving both government institutions and non-governmental organizations, businesses, and the general public. Reforestation campaigns, beach and river clean-ups, and educational workshops in schools and communities on the importance of environmental conservation are organized.
Larger cities, such as Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara, often host environmental fairs where green projects are presented, talks on climate change are held, and the use of renewable energy is promoted. In addition, the media often dedicate space to disseminating messages that invite reflection on the environmental crisis and the need to adopt more sustainable lifestyles.
3. World Book and Copyright Day (April 23)
World Book and Copyright Day, promoted by UNESCO, is a date that celebrates the importance of reading, publishing and the protection of copyright. This celebration seeks to encourage reading and promote the publishing industry globally.
Mexico, with a rich literary tradition, celebrates this day with multiple activities in libraries, schools, universities, and cultural centers. Book fairs, author presentations, reading contests, and creative writing workshops are organized in different parts of the country. Major cities, such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, are often the venues for important events that seek to bring literature closer to the population.
The Fondo de Cultura Económica (FCE), one of the most important publishing houses in Mexico, usually actively participates in these celebrations, organizing activities that promote reading among children and young people. Public readings of classics of Mexican and international literature are also held, and tributes are paid to outstanding writers.
4. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (November 25)
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, also known as Orange Day, is a date that seeks to raise awareness in society about gender violence and promote actions to eradicate it. This date was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999.
In Mexico, this day is especially significant due to the high rates of gender violence that affect the country. On November 25, marches, vigils and commemorative events take place in different cities. Educational institutions and civil society organizations organize conferences, workshops and awareness campaigns on the importance of preventing and eradicating violence against women.
Campaigns are being promoted on social media under the hashtag #OrangeDay, which seek to raise awareness and mobilize the population against gender violence. In addition, awareness-raising activities are being held in public spaces and the population is invited to wear orange, a color that symbolizes a future without violence for women and girls.
5. World Health Day (April 7)
World Health Day, promoted by the World Health Organization (WHO), is celebrated on April 7 and aims to highlight the importance of health and promote actions that improve the well-being of people globally.
In Mexico, World Health Day is commemorated with activities organized by health institutions, universities and non-governmental organizations. Vaccination campaigns, blood donation days and educational events on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle are held. Universities and research centers usually organize seminars and conferences on public health issues, where the main health challenges facing the country are addressed.
In recent years, topics such as mental health and the prevention of chronic diseases have become particularly important in the activities of this day. Access to health is promoted for all people, regardless of their socioeconomic situation, and calls are made to the authorities to strengthen the public health system.
6. World Water Day (March 22)
World Water Day, celebrated on March 22, was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993 to highlight the importance of freshwater and the need for sustainable management of water resources.
In Mexico, the celebration of World Water Day is an opportunity to reflect on the challenges related to water scarcity, pollution and water resource management. Workshops, conferences and activities are organized in schools and communities to raise awareness about the importance of taking care of water.
In some regions of the country, where water scarcity is a critical problem, community organizations and local authorities work together to promote responsible water use. Awareness campaigns are carried out and the implementation of technologies that allow water saving in households and in agriculture is encouraged.
7. International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples (August 9)
The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, celebrated on August 9, was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1994. This day aims to promote and protect the rights of the world's indigenous peoples and recognize their contributions to cultural diversity.
Mexico, with a rich diversity of indigenous peoples, celebrates this day with events that highlight the importance of preserving indigenous languages, traditions and cultures. Cultural fairs, art exhibitions, and traditional music and dance performances are organized in different regions of the country. Indigenous communities take advantage of this date to make their demands visible and fight for the recognition of their rights.
In Mexico City, activities are held at cultural institutions such as the National Museum of Anthropology, where lectures and exhibitions on the history and culture of Mexico's indigenous peoples are held. Workshops on indigenous languages are also organized and the consumption of handicrafts made by indigenous communities is promoted.
8. International Youth Day (August 12)
International Youth Day, celebrated on 12 August, was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999 to highlight the fundamental role of young people in society and to promote their active participation in sustainable development.
In Mexico, International Youth Day is celebrated with activities that seek to empower young people and encourage their participation in the political, social, and cultural life of the country. Forums, debates, and workshops are organized on topics such as education, employment, human rights, and citizen participation. Universities and youth organizations are the main promoters of these activities.
In addition, concerts, art festivals, and sports competitions are held in different cities across the country, where young people can express themselves and show their talent. On social media, hashtags such as #JuventudEnAcción are used to promote youth participation and raise awareness of youth-led initiatives.
9. World Food Day (October 16)
World Food Day, celebrated on October 16, was established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in 1979 to raise awareness of the importance of food security and the fight against hunger.
In Mexico, World Food Day is celebrated with activities organized by government institutions, NGOs and universities. Campaigns are held to promote healthy and sustainable eating, and fairs are organized for local and organic products. In schools, educational activities are carried out on the importance of a balanced diet and nutrition programs are promoted.
Conferences and seminars are also held on topics related to food security, food waste and food sovereignty. In rural communities, sustainable agriculture and the protection of native seeds are promoted as a way to ensure food security in the future.
10. International Human Solidarity Day (December 20)
The International Day of Human Solidarity, celebrated on December 20, was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2005 as a day to celebrate our unity in diversity and to promote solidarity as a fundamental value for international relations.
In Mexico, the International Day of Human Solidarity is celebrated with campaigns that promote mutual aid and support for people in vulnerable situations. Food, clothing and toy drives are organized for marginalized communities, and volunteer initiatives are promoted.
Civil society organisations, in collaboration with businesses and local governments, organise activities to foster solidarity and cooperation between different sectors of society. On social media, hashtags such as #Solidarity and #MutualHelp are used to promote messages of unity and encourage citizen participation in solidarity initiatives.
The celebration of these days in Mexico reflects the cultural richness of the country and its ability to integrate global concerns into its daily life, demonstrating that solidarity, justice and sustainability are values shared and promoted by Mexican society.