Today is International Day of the World's Indigenous People

August 9 was first proclaimed International Day of the World's Indigenous People by the United Nations in 1994 to promote and protect the rights of the world's Indigenous population. This day also commemorates the achievements and contributions that Indigenous people make in the world. Today also marks the first time the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations met in Geneva in 1982.

The focus of this year's International Day is "Indigenous Media, Empowering Indigenous Voices." The theme aims to highlight the importance of Indigenous media in challenging stereotypes, forging Indigenous peoples' identities, communicating with the outside world, and influencing the social and political agenda.        

       

5 things you can do to celebrate International Day of the World's Indigenous People

People around the world are encouraged to participate in observing the day to spread the UN's message on Indigenous Peoples.

 

1.  Raise Awareness about Endangered Indigenous Languages.

Send an ePostcard Audio Greeting.  

Engage your friends and family and raise awareness about endangered languages by sending an e-postcard with a Native language audio greeting.  

 

 

    

 

 

2.  Make Your Voice Heard about Indigenous Peoples' Rights. 

Demand that Herkales Farm respect the rights of Oroko, Bakossi, and Upper Bayang peoples in Cameroon by stopping oil palm plantations from destroying the rainforests that Indigenous people depend on. Send an email.

 

3.  Watch a Live Webcast of the International Day Celebration at the UN Headquarters in NY. 2:30pm - 6:00pm EST. 

This special event at UN Headquarters in New York on August 9 will feature speakers and videos of Indigenous media organizations. On Twitter, use #UNIndigenousDay for regular updates and for sending questions to panel members in the days leading up to and during the event. Watch it here:

http://webtv.un.org/ 

 

 

   

4.  Support Cultural Survival's work with Indigenous Peoples. Make a gift today. Our work is only possible because of people like you, who believe in and support our mission to partner with Indigenous Peoples to defend their lands, languages, and cultures.  

 

 

    

 
 

 

5. Spread the Word! One of the easiest and most effective things you can do is raise awareness about Indigenous Peoples. Forward, post this message on facebook, or tweet it!