April 6th recognizes the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. The day celebrates how sports and physical activity contribute to education, human development, healthy lifestyles, and a peaceful world. The observance also recognizes the power of sport in promoting peace.
The universality of sports worldwide makes it a strong place to develop peace. For example, did you know during World War One, a Christmas truce was declared between enemies? British and German soldiers played football in what was earlier that day a battlefield.
HOW TO OBSERVE
- Watch a movie that shows the value of sport in development and peace such as Brian’s Song (1971), Chariots of Fire (1981), Cool Runnings (1993), McFarland (2015), Invictus (2009) and Unbroken (2014).
- Become a part of any Foundation for Sport, Development, and/or Peace
- Help organize and take part in a sporting event for underprivileged kids
- Donate money or time to local sport organizations that help underprivileged kids get involved in sports and keep them happy and healthy
- Follow on social media using #DayofSportforDevelopmentandPeace #iplay, #IDSDP
- Organize a friendly match between two groups of friends or families. Pick a sport of your choice and get everyone involved in a friendly competition.
HISTORY
- 1978 – UNESCO described sport and physical education as a “fundamental right for all.”
- 2013 – April 6 was declared the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly and has been celebrated every year since 2014.
The adoption of this Day signifies the increasing recognition by the UN of the positive influence that sport can have on the advancement of human rights, and social and economic development.