All - Leep Calendar

The Baltic nation of Lithuania has seen its independence come and go over the years. It first declared independence on February 16, 1918, only to be swallowed by the Soviet Union in 1940 as part of a land swap deal between Stalin and Hitler. But the Lithuanian people are hearty, and when the opportunity presented itself again on March 11, 1990, this little country became the first to declare independence from the Soviet Union. It would take another year and a half before Moscow finally let them go. Never dissuaded, on August 19, 1991, the Lithuanian people at long last had their independence recognized. Independence Day is a national holiday.

Africa

Feb

Independence Day (LK)(1948): February 4

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Sri Lanka became a nation in 1972. Before then, the nation was known as Ceylon and was part of the British Empire. On February 4, 1948, the nation gained independence from colonial rule; Independence Day is a national holiday.

Africa

Feb

Interfaith Week, World: February 1-7

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First proposed by His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan in 2010, World Interfaith Harmony Week was unanimously adopted by the United Nations in October of that year, with the first observance in February 2011. Following in the footsteps of The Common Word initiative, this week brings together Muslim and Christian leaders to engage in a dialogue based on two common fundamental religious commandments; Love of God and love of a neighbor. Both ideals are at the heart of the three monotheistic religions (Christianity, Islam, and Judaism) and provide the most solid theological ground possible. The event has grown to include members of other faiths, including Jewish, Buddhist, Sikh, and Hindu, as well as those without faith.

Africa

Feb

Internet Friends Day, Intl.: February 13

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International Internet Friends Day, observed annually on February 13, celebrates the unique and often meaningful friendships formed over the Internet. In an age where digital communication transcends geographical barriers, this day acknowledges the significant role that online interactions play in the social fabric of the 21st century. International Internet Friends Day originated in the early 2000s, a period marked by the rapid expansion of the Internet and the advent of social media platforms. As more people connected online, forming relationships beyond physical boundaries became increasingly common. This phenomenon sparked the idea of dedicating a day to recognizing these unique connections. The purpose of International Internet Friends Day is multifaceted. Primarily, it acknowledges and celebrates the friendships formed and maintained through digital means — whether through social media, online gaming, forums, or other virtual platforms. These friendships, often spanning different countries and continents, showcase the power of the Internet in bringing people together based on shared interests, experiences, and values rather than geographic proximity. This day also highlights the evolving nature of human relationships in the digital era. In contrast to traditional views that regard physical interaction as paramount to forming strong bonds, International Internet Friends Day underscores the depth and legitimacy of connections made through digital communication. It challenges the stereotype that online friendships are superficial or less valuable than those formed in person. Moreover, International Internet Friends Day serves as a reminder of the positive aspects of the Internet, countering the often negative narrative surrounding digital life. It celebrates the support, companionship, and joy these friendships can bring, especially to those who may feel isolated or marginalized physically. The celebration of this day varies among individuals and online communities. It often involves sharing stories and experiences of online friendships, sending messages of appreciation to internet friends, and even organizing virtual meet-ups. Sometimes, it encourages internet friends to arrange in-person meetings, further solidifying their bonds. International Internet Friends Day is a contemporary celebration that reflects the changing landscape of human connection in the digital age. It not only honors the friendships formed online but also symbolizes the broader potential of the Internet to foster understanding, empathy, and camaraderie across the global community.

Africa

Feb

Internment Day (1942): February 19

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American history isn’t always flattering. Whether slavery, genocide against Native Americans, civil rights abuses, and even the insurrection of the capital in 2021 by people seeking to interfere with the peaceful transfer of power, few events are more contra-American and shameful than the events of February 19, 1942. President Franklin D Roosevelt issued Executive Order 9066 on this day, ordering the internment of Japanese Americans in concentration camps on US soil. Of the over 110,000 Japanese Americans held during WWII, two-thirds were American citizens, and their only crime was being of Japanese ancestry. In addition to losing their freedom, they lost their homes, businesses, and communities and wouldn’t be released until January 2, 1945. Internment Day marks this wretched anniversary.

Africa

Feb

Invasive Species Week II, Ntl.: February 23-27

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National Invasive Species Week is one of two each year, focusing on outreach and education. Invasive species can be plant, animal, or insect-based. When they land in an area, they can devastate an entire ecosystem destroying food, habitats, crops, and livestock. How you can help: BOATERS—Clean, drain and dry your boat trailer and gear whenever you leave a body of water. PET OWNERS—If you have acquired an undesirable pet or fish species for your aquarium or water garden, it is important not to release these plants or animals into the environment. TRAVELERS, HIKERS, BIKERS, BIRDERS, AND CAMPERS—If you engage in terrestrial recreational activities like camping, hiking, biking, or birding, take care not to be an unwitting vehicle of dispersion. GARDENERS—Not all non-native species are bad, but some plants that look lovely in your garden might be harmful invaders that will make their way into natural areas.

Africa

Feb

Inventors' Day, Ntl.(1847): February 11

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Howdy! We're working on the description for this event. It's one of over two thousand events added to the calendar this year. We have verified it is an authentic event and have included the organization behind it for our members. In the meantime, we wanted to make sure you were able to include it in your search for events this month and in this category. We appreciate your patience!

Africa

Feb

Islander Day (CA-PE): February 16

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Islander Day is a statutory holiday celebrated in Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada, typically observed on the third Monday in February. The holiday celebrates the unique culture, history, and community spirit of Prince Edward Island, the smallest province in Canada known for its scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. History of Islander Day: Islander Day was officially recognized as a holiday in Prince Edward Island in 2009. The introduction of this holiday was part of an effort to provide residents with a mid-winter break and an opportunity to celebrate the island's distinct identity. Prince Edward Island, with its storied history of settlement by the French and British and its indigenous Mi'kmaq people, has a rich cultural tapestry that Islander Day seeks to honor. Purpose of the Celebration: Islander Day serves multiple purposes: Community Bonding: It offers a chance for islanders to come together during the long winter months, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Cultural Celebration: The day is a platform to celebrate the unique cultural heritage and traditions of Prince Edward Island. Rest: Providing a day off during the winter allows residents to enjoy leisure activities. Customs and Celebrations: Islander Day's celebrations are reflective of Prince Edward Island's community-oriented spirit and cultural richness: Community Events: Towns and communities across the island host various events, including family-friendly activities, sports events, and social gatherings. Cultural Performances: Local musicians, dancers, and artists often showcase their talents through performances and exhibitions, celebrating the island's cultural heritage. Outdoor Activities: Islanders take advantage of the holiday to enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities like sledding, ice skating, and snowshoeing, embracing the beauty of the island's winter landscape. Educational Activities: Museums and cultural centers may host special events or exhibits to educate residents and visitors about the island's history and heritage. Local Cuisine: Culinary events or community meals featuring local cuisine allow residents and visitors to experience the island's food culture. Charity and Community Service: Some use the holiday to engage in community service or charity events, emphasizing the island's spirit of helping and supporting one another. Islander Day is a reflection of Prince Edward Island's community spirit, cultural pride, and the value placed on preserving and celebrating its unique identity. It's a day for islanders to pause, celebrate their heritage, and enjoy the camaraderie of their fellow residents.

Africa

Feb

Israel Declared an Apartheid State (IL/PS)(2022): February 1

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THE LAST APARTHEID STATE Amnesty International released a report on 1 February 2022 that decisively recognized the state of Israel as an apartheid state. The report covers the lands granted in 1948 by the UN to the state, those conquered after, and those occupied since 1967, as well as over 90 laws and policies enshrining apartheid within Israel and the lands it occupies. MECHANICS OF ISRAELI APARTHEID Apartheid is a crime against humanity and a war crime that uses the power of the state, its industries, laws, and the military to privilege one group of people over another at the expense of the other. In Israeli apartheid, the privileged people can prove they are of the Jewish religion, something denoted by genealogy rather than practice or faith. Non-privileged people are all other faiths, with the majority being Muslim, Christian, and Druze. The privileged people of Israel live in a thriving democracy and consume 80% of the nation's resources despite being barely 50% of its population. The targeted group, the unprivileged, lives in an authoritarian, militarized theocracy with little or no rights and must survive on 20% of the nation's resources. The privileged people have complete freedom of movement, generous government subsidies, preferential housing, and a network of roads and communities built exclusively for them. By law, these homes and streets are solely for the use of the privileged people, and the discriminated against are prohibited. Meanwhile, the discriminated against population is denied building permits, new housing, fundamental water rights, the unencumbered ability to earn a living, freedom of movement, complete healthcare, safety, security, and the right to assemble—pretty much everything at any time and upon the government's whim. All "privileges" are given or taken from the non-privileged group at will by the apartheid state. The unprivileged can be attacked without warning by the military, imprisoned indefinitely, and excluded from civil courts used by the privileged. Instead, they must use military courts, which rarely decide in their favor. Since the fall elections in Israel in 2022, the state has continued consolidating its hold and state-driven terror against its non-Jewish inhabitants to a level of discrimination and violence by a state against a minority that has not been seen since Europe in the 1920s and 1930s. WHAT IS THE FUTURE FOR THOSE UNDER APARTHEID? Other than the United States and a few of its vassals, Apartheid Israel is recognized internationally as a rogue state; like its predecessor, South Africa, eventually, Israel will be forced to become a single state with equal rights for all at some point, most likely with a Jewish character and holidays. Israel's only other option is to cease existing, which will come about by force, global condemnation, or internal destruction. Apartheid is not sustainable in the long term, and hasbara (propaganda) can only fool people, even the privileged, for so long. UPDATED FOR 2024 As of January 2024, Apartheid Israel is now under warning by the International Court of Justice for the crime of genocide against the Palestinian people. The state continues to use the attack of 7 October as a pretext to ethnically cleanse and push the Palestinian population out of Gaza and the Occupied Territories. Between 7 October 2023 and 1 February 2024 (statistics from the United Nations and Health Ministry), the apartheid state has displaced 1.9 million Palestinians and destroyed over 70% of the infrastructure, homes, health facilities, education facilities, religious houses, cultural centers, and businesses of Gaza with additional destruction in the West Bank. Casualty statistics include: OCCUPIED GAZA Killed: at least 26,900 people, including 10,000+ children and 7,000+ women. Injured: over 65,949, including 8,663 children and 6,327 women. More than 8,000 people remain missing. OCCUPIED WEST BANK Killed: 370+ people, including 99 children Injured: 4,250+ In Israel, officials revised their death toll from 7 October down from 1,405 to 1,139. According to Israeli media, up to half of those killed during the assault of 7 October were killed by Israeli forces, not militants. The number of soldiers killed or wounded since the ground incursion began in late October has not been released but is estimated at over 400 dead and 2,000 wounded. Several factions of the government and extremists in the settler movement are openly advocating and celebrating genocide, ethnic cleansing, and the destruction of Gaza to facilitate settler dreams of oceanfront property and an Arab-free Greater Israel. Despite charges of genocide, Israel escalated its destruction of Palestine, further disrupted aid efforts, and fortified its apartheid system. The International Court of Justice gave Israel one month, on 26 January 2024, to improve the situation. As of 1 February, it has arrogantly ignored the court's ruling and actively increased its assault on the civilians of Gaza and the West Bank.

Africa

Feb

Italian Food Day, Eat: February 13

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Most people don't need an excuse to indulge in the delicious, savory, and sweet spices found in Italian food. But just in case you need a reason, today is Eat Italian Food Day. Celebrate by discovering an Italian dish you've never had.

Africa

Feb

Janan Luwum Day (UG)(1977): February 16

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Africa

Jan

Jaya Ekadashi (H): January 28-29

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Hindus believe fasting (vrat) on Jaya Ekadashi assists in eradicating one's sins and brings them closer to achieving salvation (Moksha). While pious devotees observe a complete fast on this day, some opt for a partial fast. The day before Jaya Ekadashi, people consume a single meal to prepare for the fast. On Jaya Ekadashi, devotees rise early and take a bath, after which they offer their morning prayers to Lord Vishnu. The vrat is observed for 24 hours, either full or partial abstinence from specific foods, including rice, grains, honey, and eating on a metal plate. However, fruits, nuts, milk products, vegetables, and dried fruits can be consumed during the vrat. Firm Vishnu devotees stay awake the entire night and spend their time at Vishnu temples singing hymns and listening to stories devoted to Lord Vishnu. After bathing and offering prayers the following day, a lamp is lit, completing the vrat. PLEASE NOTE: We use the Indian civil calendar, the official holiday calendar in India. The Hindu faith has many calendars, each specific to different regions and tribes, with dates and celebrations marked by differing positions of the sun, moon, and stars. Names of months and holidays and the corresponding dates in the Gregorian Calendar may vary widely from one calendar to the next. Determine the proper calendar before attending local events.

Africa

Feb

Jell-O Week, Ntl.: February 8-14

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Since Utah eats more Jell-O than any other state, it's fitting that it declared National Jell-O Week in 2001 and made it the official state food. Peter Cooper invented the wiggly food in the 1800s, but his wife May named it. Today there are 22 flavors, and over 75% of American households have at least one box of Jell-O at home.

Africa

Jan

Jenadriyah Festival (SA): January 23-February 10 (est)

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Inaugurated in 1985, the Janadriya Festival is Saudi Arabia’s most prominent cultural and heritage event showcasing entertainment, art, history, and exhibits from throughout the Kingdom. One of the most popular features is the life-size heritage village, where visitors can walk through and experience the Kingdom’s past. This two-week event is held in Riyadh each year.The first ten days are devoted to camel racing, championed by the Saudi Camel Federation. We estimate the date based on similar years in the past and the dates of the camel races. Actual date is announced a few weeks prior.

Africa