World Humanist Day

World Humanist Day is an international holiday dedicated to the positive values of humanism. It is by supporters of humanistic ideas around the world. The initiative to celebrate World Humanist Day comes from Humanists International—an association of organizations that develop, support, and promote the ideas of humanism and disseminate knowledge about it in many countries.

History

The idea of a humanistic holiday was born in the 1980s at the local branches of the AHA, but the heads of these branches could not decide on a single date for the celebration. By the early 1990s, the AHA and Humanists International were in agreement and, with the help of resolutions, approved the date: June 21, the day of the solstice.

Both organizations submitted two similar resolutions each—the first announced that World Humanist Day should be, and the second determined the specific date.

Interesting Facts

There are groups of humanists who attach great importance to the solstice. In their opinion, it is deeply symbolic and signifies the exit of humanity from the darkness of ignorance and savagery to the light of knowledge and humanistic values. These groups develop whole rituals for the holiday with music and themed readings.

How to Take Part

If you are a supporter of humanism and cherish values such as freethinking, critical thinking, rationalism, free will, and the protection of human rights regardless of religious beliefs, you should celebrate this holiday with like-minded people.

• Join Humanists International or another humanist organization.
• Organize a promotion, concert, or exhibition to promote humanistic ideas.
• Shoot a thematic video and post it on your social media page.
• Organize a party or picnic with friends to discuss humanitarian values and plan humanitarian actions.

When is World Humanist Day in 2024?

World Humanist Day is observed on June 21 each year.

Observations