Date
Wednesday
Jun
18

June 18

International Day for Countering Hate Speech

Join us in standing against hate speech on International Day for Countering Hate Speech - let's spread love and acceptance instead!

Yearly Date
June 18
Type
Day
Category
Cause

Introduction

Get ready to raise your voice against hate speech on June 18, also known as International Day for Countering Hate Speech! This day was established by the United Nations in 2019 to combat the spread of hate speech and promote a more peaceful and inclusive world. It's an important reminder for all of us to stand up against discrimination and intolerance, and to spread messages of love and acceptance instead. So let's join together on this day to make a positive impact and promote unity among all people.

International Day for Countering Hate Speech Timeline

1948
Universal Declaration of Human Rights
The United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which implicitly condemns hate speech through its article on nondiscrimination and freedom of speech.
1966
International Covenant on Civil Rights
This international law addresses individual's general comment to reject any advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence.
1997
Online Hate Speech Recognition
The Internet's emergence necessitated recognizing online platforms as venues for hate speech proliferation, leading to calls for more regulation.
2011
Rabat Plan of Action
UN experts drafted this comprehensive strategy for criminalizing the most dangerous instances of hate speech, while also protecting freedom of expression.
2016
Social Media's Commitment
Heavyweight platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Microsoft committed to the EU Code of Conduct on countering illegal online hate speech.
2019
Establishment of Countering Hate Speech Day
The UN officially designates June 18 as International Day for Countering Hate Speech to combat rising levels of hatred and violence worldwide.

How to Celebrate International Day for Countering Hate Speech

1

Organize a community event

Bring your community together to discuss and raise awareness about hate speech. This could include organizing a panel of speakers, hosting a workshop, or organizing a rally or march against hate speech.

2

Spread positivity on social media

Use your social media platforms to spread positive messages and counter hate speech. Share inspirational quotes, stories of people standing up against hate speech, and resources for combatting it.

3

Attend a workshop or training

Educate yourself on how to recognize and respond to hate speech by attending a workshop or training. This could be through your workplace, school, or local organization.

4

Support organizations fighting hate speech

Donate to or volunteer for organizations that work towards countering hate speech and promoting tolerance and acceptance.

5

Have difficult conversations with friends and family

Use this day as an opportunity to have open and honest conversations with friends and family about the impact of hate speech and how to combat it. It may be uncomfortable, but it is an important step towards creating a more inclusive and accepting society.

Why International Day for Countering Hate Speech is Important

A

Promotes tolerance and understanding

International Day for Countering Hate Speech serves as a reminder to embrace diversity and promote unity. It encourages people to stand up against discrimination and hate speech, and instead foster empathy and understanding towards one another.

B

Raises awareness about the impact of hate speech

Hate speech can have serious consequences, leading to discrimination, violence, and even genocide. International Day for Countering Hate Speech helps educate people about the dangers of hate speech and emphasizes the importance of promoting peaceful and respectful communication.

C

Encourages accountability and action

By recognizing this day, we are reminded of our responsibility to combat hate speech and promote a more inclusive and tolerant society. It encourages individuals, communities, and governments to take action in countering hate speech and creating a safer world for all.

International Day for Countering Hate Speech Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Jun 17
Saturday
2024
Jun 17
Monday
2025
Jun 17
Tuesday
2026
Jun 17
Wednesday
2027
Jun 17
Thursday