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Resilient tourism plays a crucial role in the economic development of many countries, particularly in developing nations, small island developing states, Africa, and middle-income countries. It serves as a significant source of income, foreign currency, tax revenue, and employment. Sustainable tourism, including ecotourism, has the potential to contribute to all three dimensions of sustainable development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It can foster economic growth, alleviate poverty, create employment opportunities, promote sustainable consumption and production patterns, and support the sustainable use of oceans and marine resources. Sustainable tourism also has broader societal benefits, such as promoting local culture, improving quality of life, empowering women, young people, indigenous communities, and rural populations. It can contribute to rural development, enhance living conditions, and support small-holder farmers. By embracing sustainable and resilient tourism practices, countries can achieve sustained and inclusive economic growth, social development, financial inclusion, environmental protection, and poverty eradication. This includes the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and natural resources, as well as promoting investment and entrepreneurship in sustainable tourism. In recognition of the importance of resilient tourism, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed Global Tourism Resilience Day on February 17 through resolution A/RES/77/269. This day highlights the need to foster resilient tourism development to address shocks and emergencies that affect the tourism sector. It calls for the development of national strategies for rehabilitation after disruptions, emphasizing public-private cooperation and diversification of activities and products. Overall, resilient tourism is essential for sustainable development, economic stability, and the protection of natural and cultural heritage. It encourages countries to invest in sustainable practices, cooperate in times of crisis, and adapt to changing circumstances to ensure a more resilient and sustainable tourism sector.

Africa

Feb

Trade Show Image Week, Build a Better: February 15-21

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Build a Better Trade Show Image Week seeks to educate companies who use Trade Shows within their marketing mix, best practices, and how to increase the effectiveness of their trade show booths.

Africa

Feb

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, (US/MX)(1848): February 2

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The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, signed on February 2, 1848, is a pivotal document in North American history, marking the end of the Mexican-American War. This treaty had significant and lasting implications, particularly for the territorial boundaries of the United States and Mexico. The treaty carries the name of Villa de Guadalupe Hidalgo, where the two nations signed it. This historic village is now a neighborhood of Mexico City. The Mexican-American War, which began in 1846, was primarily a conflict over territorial disputes following the 1845 U.S. annexation of Texas, which Mexico still considered its territory. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo came about after nearly two years of fighting and with American forces occupying Mexico City, Under the treaty's terms, Mexico ceded most of its northern territories to the United States, including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and parts of Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Texas. In return, the United States agreed to pay Mexico $15 million and assume $3.25 million in debts owed by Mexico to American citizens. The treaty also established the Rio Grande as the border between Texas and Mexico. The impact of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is profound and enduring. It resulted in the United States expanding its territory by approximately one-third, shaping the nation's geographical and cultural landscape. The acquisition of these territories played a crucial role in the U.S.'s development into a continental power and its subsequent economic and political growth. For Mexico, the treaty marked a significant loss of land and resources, which had lasting effects on its national development and relations with the United States. The treaty also had a substantial impact on the populations living in the ceded territories, primarily Hispanic and Indigenous communities, whose rights and claims to land were often overlooked or undermined in the subsequent years. In modern times, the legacy of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo continues to influence U.S.-Mexico relations, issues of border management, and the cultural and demographic makeup of the southwestern United States. The histories and communities of this region are deeply intertwined with the outcomes of the treaty, reflecting a shared and complex past that continues to shape identities and politics in the area. Overall, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is a significant historical agreement with lasting effects on the geopolitical, cultural, and social landscapes of the United States and Mexico. Its legacy is a reminder of the profound impact of territorial changes and the importance of addressing the needs and rights of all affected populations.

Africa

Feb

Tsagaan Sar (MN): February 17-19

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Tsagaan Sar, meaning "White Moon" or "White Month," is one of Mongolia's most important traditional festivals, marking the beginning of the new year according to the Lunar calendar. Celebrated with elaborate customs and rituals, Tsagaan Sar is a time for Mongolians to honor their heritage and renew familial and community ties. TSAGAAN SAR HISTORY Tsagaan Sar's origins are rooted in ancient Mongolian practices, closely tied to nomadic lifestyles and shamanistic traditions. Its customs evolved over centuries. Historically, it marked the end of a harsh winter and the beginning of a prosperous spring, crucial for a nation of herders. The "white" in its name symbolizes purity, kindness, and the potential for a fresh start. TSAGAAN SAR CUSTOMS Tsagaan Sar festivities typically last for several days, beginning with a "Bituun" ceremony the day before the Lunar New Year. Families gather to enjoy a feast, aiming to leave no leftovers to symbolize the leaving behind of the old year's misfortunes. The first day of Tsagaan Sar starts with family members greeting each other in order of seniority and exchanging snuff bottles as a traditional gesture of goodwill. Following the gift exchange is a lavish meal, including traditional dishes like "buuz" (steamed dumplings) and "ul boov" (a stack of ceremonial cakes). Wearing their finest "deels" (traditional Mongolian clothing), people visit the homes of elders and relatives to pay their respects. Each visit includes the exchange of gifts and well-wishes for the new year. The festival also includes various regional customs, such as games, horse racing, and traditional music and dance performances. TSAGAAN SAR SIGNIFICANCE Tsagaan Sar is a cornerstone of Mongolian culture, embodying the values of respect, family unity, and hospitality. It's a time for individuals to settle debts and grievances, symbolizing a clean slate. The festival strengthens community bonds and reaffirms social hierarchies and familial roles, which are integral to the Mongolian way of life. It's also a time for honoring ancestors and preserving Mongolian traditions, ensuring their transmission to younger generations. Representing the Lunar New Year, Tsagaan Sar is a vibrant and culturally rich celebration in Mongolia. It's a festival deeply ingrained in the Mongolian social fabric, symbolizing renewal, familial respect, and the enduring spirit of a nation deeply connected to its ancestral roots and traditions.

Africa

Feb

Tu B'Shvat (J): February 1/2

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Tu B'Shvat in Judaism is the "New Year of Trees." The tree's symbolism is fundamental in Judaism, which sees trees as a metaphor for people, divided into three parts: roots, then the trunk, branches, and leaves, and finally, fruit. Each portion of the tree has a meaning that corresponds to people's lives, struggles, and goals.

Africa

Feb

Tug of War Day: February 19

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Tug-of-war is an unofficial day celebrating the favored sport. Tug-of-war, a competitive team sport known for its simplicity and physical demand, involves two teams pulling on opposite ends of a rope to bring the rope a certain distance in one direction against the force of the opposing team's pull. The origins of tug-of-war are ancient and widespread, with evidence of the game's existence in various cultures around the world. The sport's history traces to ceremonies and rituals in ancient civilizations, including Egypt, China, and Greece. In these early forms, tug-of-war wasn't just a game but often had religious and ceremonial significance, symbolizing the struggles of the forces of good and evil. In ancient Greece, tug-of-war was a popular form of physical training for athletes. Similarly, in China, it was a training exercise for warriors during the Tang Dynasty. The rope in ancient Chinese tug-of-war was often a flexible vine, and the sport demonstrated teamwork and physical strength. The modern sport of tug-of-war began to take shape in the 19th century. During this time, the rules were standardized, and the sport became a part of popular sporting events in Europe and North America. Tug-of-war was an Olympic sport from 1900 to 1920. The primary purpose of tug-of-war is to test strength, endurance, and teamwork. It requires a collective effort from all team members to achieve a common goal, making it a physical challenge and a mental and strategic one. The sport is widely played at various levels, from casual school and community events to more organized competitions, including world championships. Despite its simplicity, tug-of-war demands a high level of physical fitness, with success relying on the team's strength, technique, and coordination. The sport fosters a sense of camaraderie and teamwork, making it a popular activity for building group morale and unity. Today, the International Olympic Committee recognizes tug-of-war as part of the World Games and is governed internationally by the Tug of War International Federation (TWIF). This recognition and organization at an international level underline the enduring appeal and competitive nature of tug-of-war, a sport with ancient roots that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages around the world.

Africa

Feb

Turkey's Twin Terror Earthquakes (TR/SY)(2023): February 6

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On February 6, 2023, twin earthquakes, one at Gaziantep (7.8 magnitude) at 4 AM local time and the second eight hours later centered in Kahramanmarhas, Turkey (7.5 magnitude), rocked the region, destroying over 16,000 buildings and killing at least 5,000 people within the first 24 hours. The twin terror tremors represent the most significant quakes in Turkey since 1939's Erzincan earthquake, which killed 33,000 people. Structural damage and casualties remain concentrated in southeastern Turkey and northwestern Syria. Freezing overnight temperatures and hundreds of aftershocks continue to thwart rescue efforts, leaving thousands of people buried in the rubble and existing structures unsafe in both nations. Syria's ongoing war and sanctions against the government have made getting aid and rescue into that country difficult, despite over 50 nations sending rescue teams, assistance, and supplies. Turkey's leadership has declared a 90-day state of emergency. The ultimate death and casualty toll is expected to reach tens of thousands. Syria's leadership has yet to do so and has thus far refused most foreign aid. LEEP Calendar wrote this entry on February 7, 2023, as the story continues to develop.

Africa

Feb

Typewriter Appreciation Month: February

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Typewriter Appreciation Month, a time to celebrate the typewriter, without which most of our modern means of communicating would be unknown. Even on a smart phone, there is a keyboard patterned after the typewriter. Richard Polt, Author of 'The Typewriter Revolution: A Typist's Companion for the 21st Century has done a beautiful job of documenting the history of the Typewriter. He writes: ___________ “The concept of a typewriter dates back at least to 1714, when Englishman Henry Mill filed a vaguely-worded patent for 'an artificial machine or method for the impressing or transcribing of letters singly or progressively one after another.' But the first typewriter proven to have worked was built by the Italian Pellegrino Turri in 1808 for his blind friend Countess Carolina Fantoni da Fivizzano; unfortunately, we do not know what the machine looked like, but we do have specimens of letters written by the Countess on it. (For details, see Michael Adler's excellent 1973 book The Writing Machine. Carey Wallace's 2010 novel The Blind Contessa's New Machine is based on the relationship between the Countess and Turri.) Numerous inventors in Europe and the United States worked on typewriters in the 19th century, but successful commercial production began only with the 'writing ball' of Danish pastor Rasmus Malling-Hansen (1870). This well-engineered device looked rather like a pincushion. Nietzsche's mother and sister once gave him one for Christmas. He hated it. Much more influential, in the long run, was the Sholes & Glidden Typewriter, which began production in late 1873 and appeared on the American market in 1874.” ___________ Read the rest of this fascinating history (includes pictures of the earliest typewriters) at: http://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-history.html

Africa

Feb

Ukulele Day, World: February 2

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The late ukulele teacher and musician Mike Lynch created Ukulele Day. Over 40 years of his life were devoted to teaching music, with his favorite instrument, the small four-string guitar-like instrument called a ukulele. His wife continues his legacy with Ukulele Day by distributing his books, music, and videos. Mike Lynch passed away on January 2, 2018.

Africa

Feb

Umbrella Day: February 10

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Parasols, sunshades, umbrellas, brolly, parapluie, rainshade, gamp, Bumbershoot, or umbrolly, however, you refer, today is Umbrella Day. Umbrellas have protected people from the wind, sun, snow, and rain since around 2000 BC.

Africa

Feb

Understanding Month, World (1905): February

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World Understanding Month in February emphasizes Rotary International's commitment to global peace and conflict resolution. Attorney Paul P. Harris, a lawyer in Chicago, founded Rotary International. It began as a fellowship for businessmen to network beyond the confines of politics and religion. The organization expanded rapidly, with clubs established in major American cities and globally. As it grew internationally, its name evolved from the Rotary Club to the International Association of Rotary Clubs and, ultimately, Rotary International. The organization focuses on humanitarian service and global peace, working closely with the United Nations and establishing Rotary Centers for International Studies in Peace and Conflict Resolution at various universities worldwide.

Africa

Feb

Union Day, (MM)(1947): February 12

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Union Day in Myanmar marks the anniversary of the Panglong Agreement on February 12, 1947. The agreement unified the nation of Burma, which changed its name in 1989 to Myanmar. Union Day is a national holiday.

Africa

Feb

Unity Day (BI)(1991): February 5

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Burundi's Unity Day, celebrated annually on February 5, is a significant national holiday commemorating the signing of the Unity Charter in 1991. This day marks a crucial moment in the country's history, representing efforts to foster peace and unity among its ethnically diverse population. The origins of Unity Day are rooted in Burundi's complex and often turbulent history, characterized by ethnic tensions primarily between the Hutu and Tutsi groups. These tensions have led to periods of violence and civil strife, most notably the genocidal violence in the 1970s and the civil war from 1993 to 2005. The Unity Charter, signed in 1991, was a landmark attempt by the government to address these deep-seated divisions and to promote national unity and reconciliation. Unity Day is a day of reflection and celebration, where Burundians commemorate the strides made towards reconciliation and the ongoing efforts to build a cohesive national identity. Various events and activities occur throughout the country, including cultural performances, sports, and community service activities. These events serve as platforms for bringing people together, fostering a sense of national pride, and promoting understanding and respect among different ethnic groups. The day also involves official ceremonies and speeches by government officials, who emphasize the importance of unity for the country's stability and development. Schools and educational institutions often hold special programs and discussions to educate the youth about the country's history and the significance of unity. Remembering Unity Day is crucial for Burundi as it underscores the importance of peace and cohesion in a country with a history of ethnic conflict. It serves as a reminder of the nation's collective journey towards unity and the need to continue working towards a harmonious and inclusive society. The day is a celebration of the progress made and a call to action to uphold the values of unity and reconciliation in everyday life. In essence, Burundi's Unity Day symbolizes hope and resilience, reflecting the country's commitment to overcoming its past divisions and building a united and prosperous future for all its citizens.

Africa

Feb

USO Day, (1941): February 4

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USO Day marks the anniversary of the founding of the United Services Organization in the months before the United States entered WWII. For many servicemen, especially those on active duty, the USO is a bright spot in an otherwise bleak and scary war. Many of America's greatest entertainers have performed for the USO. USO HISTORY from their site: Supporting America's troops was the first mission of the USO. In 1941, as it became clear that the nation was heading into World War II, several organizations mobilized to support the growing U.S. military: the Salvation Army, Young Men's Christian Association, Young Women's Christian Association, National Catholic Community Services, National Travelers Aid Association and the National Jewish Welfare Board. President Franklin D. Roosevelt created synergy among these agencies by forming the United Service Organizations to provide the emotional support the troops needed. Over time, the USO has evolved, developing new programs and services to meet the ever-changing needs of the troops and their families while holding fast to the original mission. Today, the USO continues to lift the spirits of America's troops and their families and will continue to be there for them until everyone comes home.

Africa

Feb

Valentine's Day (269 AD): February 14

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Saint Valentines Day commemorates the work of Bishop Valentine, who died in 269 AD. At that time, Christianity was not a significant faith (that changed in 361 AD), and the Roman Empire ruled one-quarter of the world's population. The Romans decided married men did not make good soldiers because they always wanted to return to their families. Their solution? Outlaw marriage. Bishop Valentine was imprisoned for performing marriages. Couples used to pass notes through his cell window (why we send Valentines), and he'd marry them in secret. Eventually, Emperor Claudius ordered Bishop Valentine executed for his part in illegally marrying men and women. However, the order was primarily because the bishop tried to convert the emperor to Christianity. In 496 AD Pope Gelasius declared February 14 Saint Valentine's Day to honor the anniversary of Bishop Valentine's martyrdom. St. Valentine is the Patron Saint of affianced couples, bee keepers, engaged couples, epilepsy, fainting, greetings, happy marriages, love, lovers, plague, travelers, and young people. The following is a longer explanation of the holiday. THE WINDING ROAD TO VALENTINE'S DAY Like many other feasts and celebrations in Christianity, Valentine's day incorporates ancient pagan holidays, in this case, Lupercalia. Lupercalia was a springtime celebration of renewal and a time of purification. Cleansing began at the Ides of February (the 15th) and continued for a few days, ending with the ritual slaughtering of goats or sheep for the gods of Rome, Romulus, and Remus. The festival provided offerings to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture. The Luperci, an ancient order of priests, led festival rituals and preserved their role in society by keeping the masses under control. Young boys were said to take strips of the slaughtered animal and slap the blood-soaked meat on crops and women to promote fertility and a bountiful harvest. WEAR YOUR HEART ON YOUR SLEEVE Practices evolved (thankfully) by the beginning of the Christian era. Rather than raw meat, young women placed their names in an urn, to which bachelors of any age would pick and become paired with that woman for the year. These lottery pairings often ended in marriage. The tradition went even further in the middle ages. Young men and women pinned names to their sleeves for a week to ward off suitors and seclude themselves with the person he or she desired. This practice is where the expression "wearing your heart on your sleeve" originated. In 498 AD, Pope Gelasius declared February 14 as Saint. Valentine's Day. Pairing by lottery was banned as un-Christian through clandestine celebrations continued into the middle-ages. With the ascendency of Gaul (modern-day France) and Spain and England as Christian powers, the three countries inserted the realities of bird's mating seasons in the middle of February as proof and the need for a celebration of coupling and fertility. The ancient worship of mother earth and Druidism practiced by the ancient Celts was rolled into modern St. Valentine's celebrations in the lead-up to the equinox in March. THE VALENTINE RENAISSANCE ROMANCE The Duke of Orleans, Charles, captured in the battle of Agincourt in 1415 AD, sent a "greeting" to his wife from his prison cell in the Tower of London. Carefully written, he used the sentiment as a cover to communicate France's predicament to the King of France. His is considered the oldest Valentine card in existence. The English King Henry V later hired a writer to send a romantic note to Catherine of Valois. Some attribute the flourishing of Valentine's affection to the father of British literature, Geoffrey Chaucer, who died in 1400 AD, recorded the detailed mating rituals of birds to amuse the royal court. Ultimately, British King Henry VII declared February 14 as Saint Valentine's Day, formally ensconcing it into the modern calendar. X'S & O'S Valentine's day reached popularity in Britain by the middle of the 17th century with the proliferation of the printing press. The press allowed more people to hear authors like Chaucer through the town crier. Most people were illiterate, so upon completion of a note by a scribe, most signed with an "x." Signing with an X led to the letter being shorthand for a kiss. In 1797, a primer for men called "The Young Man's Valentine's Writer" was published to help the linguistically challenged compose verse and poems of love for their intended. Some of the text was rather racy; pre-printed, it could be sent anonymously. Most cards, however, were still handmade, representing a higher station in life and an ability to provide a comfortable life for the chosen Valentine. Americans began to send printed cards as postage rates became more affordable. Around 1840, a woman named Esther Howland created the first mass-produced Valentine's Day cards, citing her desire to help women gain an appreciation for their hard work and cultivate commitment from men. ENTER THE AGE OF CONSUMERISM Hallmark printed its first Valentine's Day card in 1913. Cards, flowers, chocolates, and jewelry are the most popular gifts purchased, with $20 billion annually spent on Valentine's Day. FLOWERS Giving flowers on Valentine's Day is believed to originate with a French princess who presented them to her lover on Valentine's Day. Flowers were unattainable to most people due to their cost and rarity until recently. As a symbol of love, the red rose, the favorite flower of the Roman goddess of love, Venus, was often chosen in the Victorian era. Positioning the flower as such did come with PR help from a Dutch florist. CHOCOLATE Richard Cadbury, in 1868, put his confections in a heart-shaped box and gave it to his daughter. He denied that it had anything to do with the holiday, but those who could afford such luxuries started to adopt it as a ritual along with hand-written and printed cards. The Second World War and the boom in the economy catapulted Valentine's Day into popular culture. Suddenly nearly anyone could afford small gifts and cards. Today, men purchase 75 percent of all chocolate for Valentine's Day; women buy the majority of chocolate throughout the year. Men tend to purchase lingerie, flowers, and chocolate within two days of February 14; women begin buying their special someone a gift by January 15, an entire month before the holiday. Women also tend to take care of themselves, with 15 percent admitting to buying flowers on Valentine's Day for themselves. JEWELRY During the 1980s, DeBeer's, the South African diamond conglomerate, saw an opportunity to extract revenue from an increasingly wealthy North American population by marketing diamonds and jewelry as a Valentine's Day gift option. The campaign was highly successful. DeBeer's is also the company that, in the 1930s, made the diamond essential for engagement rings. Happy Valentine's Day.

Africa