International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief

International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief

International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief is a global observance that aims to raise awareness about the plight of individuals and communities who have, sadly, experienced various forms of violence solely because of their religious convictions and practices. By shining a spotlight on this immensely troubling reality, the day seeks to promote tolerance, compassion, and understanding, while pledging unwavering support for the countless individuals around the world affected by such deplorable acts of hatred and persecution.

This important observance, observed annually, was first established by the United Nations General Assembly in Resolution 73/296 on May 28, 2019, in response to the growing number of heinous attacks on religious communities, sites, and individuals globally. In Canada, a country that prides itself on its longstanding commitment to inclusivity and diversity, the day serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of upholding and fostering a strong sense of social harmony and cohesion, in a nation that is home to a vibrant assortment of cultural and religious traditions. Moreover, it encourages Canadians to contemplate, value, and protect the fundamental right to religious freedom enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

To commemorate the occasion, various events and initiatives are organized across the nation, which could include discussions, seminars, and workshops that delve into the complexities of religiously-motivated violence, as well as the various strategies that can be employed to counteract this grave issue. Through sharing stories, offering support, and exchanging ideas, communities and individuals across the country are enabled to stand in solidarity with the victims of these cruel and unjust acts, and to reaffirm their steadfast dedication to promoting a more tolerant and inclusive society. International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief is observed on August 22nd.

Facts about this day

• According to the Pew Research Center, government use of force against religious or belief communities occurred in 95 countries in 2018.
• In 2018, more than a quarter of the world’s countries experienced a high incidence of hostilities motivated by religious hatred, mob violence related to religion, terrorism, and harassment of women for violating religious codes
• Most incidences perpetrated against victims of acts of violence based on religion or belief are considered hate crimes. Hate crimes are criminal actions intended to harm or intimidate people because of their race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, or other minority group status.
• Hate crimes motivated by religion have been increasing in recent years, with some groups facing a higher risk of discrimination, such as Muslims, Jews, and Sikhs.
• Canada's Criminal Code has provisions addressing hate propaganda, promoting genocide, and hate crimes. These provisions can be used to prosecute individuals who commit acts of violence based on religion or belief and can result in stricter sentences for those convicted of such offenses.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

• Learn more about the UN's Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism. The plan focuses on preventing the spread of violent extremism by creating counter-terrorism measures.
• Watch the UN's video about their campaigning against attacks on religious communities. The video features a Jewish family and their struggle against anti-Semitism.
• Watch a Documentary to learn more about Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief in Canada:
  1)The Reckoning: Hollywood's Worst Kept Secret - (2018): This documentary explores the widespread sexual abuse and harassment in the entertainment industry, including the experiences of Canadian victims.
  2)Rehtaeh Parsons: The Unfinished Story - (2015): This CBC documentary tells the story of Rehtaeh Parsons, a Canadian teenager who faced sexual assault and online harassment by the attackers and their supporters, leading to her suicide in 2013.
• Read a book to learn more about Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief in Canada:
  1)Mistreatment of Muslims: Hate Crimes, Intolerance, and Discrimination in Canada - by Sheema Khan: This book provides an analysis of hate crimes and discrimination against Muslims in Canada, exploring the root causes and societal context.
  2)Racism, Eh? A Critical Inter-Disciplinary Anthology of Race & Racism in Canada - edited by Camille A. Nelson and Charmaine A. Nelson: This anthology explores various facets of racism in Canada, including acts of violence based on religion or belief.