World Day of Social Justice

World Day of Social Justice History

World Day of Social Justice is dedicated to promoting equality and justice around the world. It also aims to raise awareness about social injustices such as poverty, unemployment, and discrimination, which prevent many individuals from enjoying the basic human rights to which they are entitled. The day focuses on fostering dialogue about social justice, removing barriers that people face because of unfairness or discrimination, and advocating for sustainable economies and societies where everyone has a fair chance.

The World Day of Social Justice was initiated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 to encourage the international community's efforts to promote development and human dignity. For the people in India, these objectives resonate deeply. As a diverse country housing numerous religious, ethnic, and social groups, India continually strives to achieve social justice. Its constitution places immense emphasis on egalitarian values such as justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Over the years, attaining social justice has been central to the country's development and policy-making processes, with numerous initiatives designed to address social inequalities.

In India, the World Day of Social Justice is observed with various activities organized by the government, NGOs, educational institutions, and civil society. The day serves as an opportunity to highlight the Indian constitution's values, celebrate significant strides in social justice, and discuss ways to mitigate remaining hindrances. Speeches, round table talks, seminars, and public demonstrations typically form part of the commemoration, often driving the collective effort towards greater social justice in the country. The World Day of Social Justice is globally celebrated on the 20th of February every year.

Facts about World Day of Social Justice

• The theme for World Day of Social Justice in 2024 was Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances. In 2023 the theme was Overcoming Barriers and Unleashing Opportunities for Social Justice.
• The roots of social justice can be traced back to ancient societies, including those in Greece and Rome, where philosophers discussed ideas of equality and fairness.
• Social justice is not limited to one field of study. It ties in with sociology, philosophy, law, human rights, political science, and much more.
• In 2018, the Supreme Court of India decriminalized homosexuality by striking down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code. This landmark judgment was a major step towards social justice for the LGBTQ community in India.
• India has implemented several affirmative action policies, such as the reservation system, to promote social justice among historically marginalized communities, particularly the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. These policies have helped increase access to education, employment, and political representation for disadvantaged groups.

In the News and Trending in India for World Day of Social Justice

Top things to do in India for World Day of Social Justice

• Read a book to learn more about Social Justice in India?
  Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents - by Isabel Wilkerson
  India After Gandhi: The History of the World's Largest Democracy - by Ram Chandra Guha
• Visit museums or exhibitions: Some museums, such as Gandhi Smriti in New Delhi, National Museum of Indian History in Mumbai or Indian Museum in Kolkata, showcase India's fight for freedom and equality, identifying key social justice milestones.