On November 16, the world comes together to observe the “International Day for Tolerance,” a day dedicated to raising public awareness of the dangers of intolerance. This day fosters mutual understanding, respect, and acceptance of diversity. International Day for Tolerance aims to foster dialogue and promote education as tools to counter prejudice, ignorance, and division.
In a rapidly globalizing world, where cultures, religions, and ideas constantly intersect, tolerance is the foundation for peace and progress. Tolerance is strongly connected to themes of “peace, dignity, and equality”, calling attention to the interconnectedness of social harmony, human rights, and sustainability.
But what does tolerance truly mean, and why is it so vital to create a better future?
WHAT IS TOLERANCE?
An act of tolerance can be described with this simple quote:
“Tolerance is respect, acceptance, and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world’s cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human.” – UNESCO’s 1995 Declaration of Principles on Tolerance
Tolerance is an active commitment to respect diversity. It recognizes the inherent dignity of all people and engages constructively across cultural and ideological divides. It is not merely enduring or “putting up with” differences or passively accepting the other, but also about knowing the obligations to act and to nurture the harmony between differences. This means building societies founded on respect for human rights, where marginalization is replaced by respect for differences.
In this world where societies are more diverse than ever, tolerance is not just an ideal but a necessity for peaceful coexistence.
WHY DOES TOLERANCE MATTER?
Societies are ever more diverse, yet intolerance is growing in many places. Sectarian tensions such as racism, xenophobia, religious bigotry, gender discrimination, etc can be found at the heart of many conflicts, and violent extremism, massive human rights violations, and cultural cleansing are on the rise. These massive problems not only harm individuals but also fracture communities and hinder global cooperation.
An act of tolerance is essential to:
- Promote Social Harmony and Preserving Peace
Tolerance helps to prevent discrimination, prejudice, and conflict, creating an environment where people feel accepted and valued. - Protect Human Rights
It ensures that everyone has the freedom to express themselves and live without fear of persecution for their differences. - Drive Progress and Equality
A tolerant and equal society fosters collaboration and innovation by bringing together diverse ideas and talents.
In essence, tolerance is an essential action in building inclusive societies where people from diverse backgrounds can coexist peacefully. It is a foundational value that enables individuals and societies to thrive in diversity. It’s a principle that asks us not just to live and let live but to actively embrace and celebrate the rich tapestry of humanity. By accepting and respecting differences, individuals create a more unified community, reducing conflict and tension.
CALL TO ACTION
Philanthropy is a powerful tool to support tolerance by addressing its roots and spreading its message. Through philanthropy, you can:
- Support Educational Initiatives That Foster Love for Diversity
Education is key to fostering tolerance. Donate to organizations or programs that provide diversity training in schools and workplaces, offer scholarships to underrepresented communities, or develop curricula that celebrate cultural diversity and teach conflict resolution. - Fund Intercultural Dialogues and Campaign Against Intolerance
Donate to platforms that bring people together across divides to share stories and build empathy, promote global cultural exchange, and host online campaigns against hate speech and misinformation. - Empower Marginalized Communities
A tolerant society is an inclusive one. Donate to initiatives that provide legal aid to victims of discrimination, offer employment opportunities for marginalized groups, and fund healthcare projects in underserved areas. - Advocate for Policy Change
Donate to advocacy groups working to implement policies that promote tolerance, such as anti-discrimination laws and protections for minority rights.
Every act of giving, no matter how small, has the potential to spark change. By supporting efforts to promote tolerance, you’re not just helping individuals, but also ensuring that acceptance and understanding are not just ideals but realities in every corner of the world.
You are helping create a better future for humanity.
So what is there to wait for?
Let’s make your Goodwill Vow and take action toward a future of a tolerant society.
Create our ideal society that fosters unity and harmony.