All - Leep Calendar

Dementia Care Professionals Month recognizes the efforts of health caregivers, guardians, nurses, doctors, and other professionals lovingly caring for people with dementia. It is the perfect time to give these individuals the appreciation they need.

Africa

Jun

Dia dos Namorados (BR): June 12

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Brazil's Dia dos Namorados, or "Lovers' Day," is dedicated to romantic love and affection. Unlike Valentine's Day, Dia dos Namorados occurs on the eve of Saint Anthony's Day, June 13th. He is Brazil's patron saint of marriage, adding a more profound significance to the date. The history of Dia dos Namorados in Brazil is more ancient than expected. The celebration was conceived in 1948 by João Doria, a renowned Brazilian publicist. Working with a department store, Doria saw the opportunity to boost sales during the typically slow winter month of June by creating a holiday that encouraged the exchange of gifts among couples. His ad campaign was centered around the slogan "Não é só com beijos que se prova o amor" ("Love is not only proven with kisses"), effectively linking love with the act of giving gifts. This commercial origin doesn't diminish the holiday's importance in Brazilian culture; it reflects the nation's ability to adapt and create new traditions. CUSTOMS OF DIA DOS NAMORADOS Usually, Brazilian couples exchange gifts, flowers, and chocolates and often go out for a romantic dinner. It's a day when special shows, events, and promotions are widespread, catering to couples looking to celebrate their love. In recent years, the holiday has moved romantic couples. The significance of Dia dos Namorados in Brazilian culture is profound, as it encapsulates the warmth and affection that are cornerstones of Brazilian social life. It reflects the broader Brazilian attitude towards love and relationships, where passion, affection, and celebrating connections are central elements while embodying Brazilian culture's vibrant and affectionate spirit, which places a high value on love and interpersonal relationships. Dia dos Namorados has a noticeable economic impact, similar to Valentine's Day in other countries. Restaurants, florists, confectioners, and retail stores often experience a significant increase in business, with many offering special promotions and events tailored to the occasion. This economic aspect is a testament to the holiday's widespread acceptance and participation nationwide. CELEBRATING DIA DOS NAMORADOS The customs associated with Dia dos Namorados vary across Brazil's diverse regions, reflecting the rich tapestry of the country's cultural landscape. In urban areas, the day sees grand gestures, including surprise parties and elaborate gifts. In contrast, smaller towns might celebrate more subduedly, focusing on intimate gatherings and personal expressions of love. Dia dos Namorados has evolved to encompass a broader range of expressions of love, moving beyond the traditional heterosexual couple. As in other nations, with Valentine's Day, the LGBTQ+ community in Brazil has embraced the holiday as a time to celebrate their relationships openly, challenging traditional norms and contributing to a more inclusive understanding of love. The day's significance in Brazilian culture extends beyond mere romantic love; it's a celebration of the warmth, passion, and vivacity characteristic of Brazilian life. It highlights the importance of expressing love and affection, not just in grand gestures but also in everyday interactions. Dia dos Namorados serves as a reminder of the central role that love, in all its forms, plays in the human experience, particularly within Brazilian society's vibrant and diverse context. Dia dos Namorados is more than just a commercial holiday in Brazil; it's a day steeped in cultural significance, reflecting the nation's ethos of warmth, affection, and inclusivity. It's a celebration that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds, united in the universal language of love. ___________ O Dia dos Namorados no Brasil, ou "Dia dos Amantes", é dedicado ao amor romântico e ao afeto. Diferente do Dia de São Valentim, o Dia dos Namorados ocorre na véspera do Dia de Santo Antônio, 13 de junho. Ele é o santo padroeiro dos casamentos no Brasil, adicionando um significado mais profundo à data. A história do Dia dos Namorados no Brasil é mais antiga do que se espera. A celebração foi concebida em 1948 por João Doria, um renomado publicitário brasileiro. Trabalhando com uma loja de departamentos, Doria viu a oportunidade de impulsionar as vendas durante o mês de junho, tipicamente lento no inverno, criando um feriado que incentivava a troca de presentes entre casais. Sua campanha publicitária era centrada no slogan "Não é só com beijos que se prova o amor", vinculando efetivamente o amor ao ato de dar presentes. Essa origem comercial não diminui a importância do feriado na cultura brasileira; ela reflete a capacidade da nação de se adaptar e criar novas tradições. COSTUMES DO DIA DOS NAMORADOS Geralmente, os casais brasileiros trocam presentes, flores e chocolates e muitas vezes saem para um jantar romântico. É um dia em que shows especiais, eventos e promoções são comuns, atendendo a casais que procuram celebrar seu amor. Nos últimos anos, o feriado tem se estendido além dos casais românticos. A importância do Dia dos Namorados na cultura brasileira é profunda, pois encapsula a calorosidade e o afeto que são pilares da vida social brasileira. Ele reflete a ampla atitude brasileira em relação ao amor e relacionamentos, onde paixão, afeto e celebração de conexões são elementos centrais, ao mesmo tempo que incorpora o espírito vibrante e afetuoso da cultura brasileira, que valoriza muito o amor e as relações interpessoais. O Dia dos Namorados tem um impacto econômico notável, semelhante ao Dia de São Valentim em outros países. Restaurantes, floriculturas, confeitarias e lojas de varejo muitas vezes experimentam um aumento significativo nos negócios, com muitos oferecendo promoções e eventos especiais para a ocasião. Esse aspecto econômico é um testemunho da aceitação e participação generalizadas do feriado em todo o país. CELEBRANDO O DIA DOS NAMORADOS Os costumes associados ao Dia dos Namorados variam nas diversas regiões do Brasil, refletindo o rico mosaico da paisagem cultural do país. Em áreas urbanas, o dia é marcado por grandes gestos, incluindo festas surpresa e presentes elaborados. Em contraste, cidades menores podem celebrar de forma mais contida, focando em reuniões íntimas e expressões pessoais de amor. O Dia dos Namorados evoluiu para abranger uma gama mais ampla de expressões de amor, indo além do casal heterossexual tradicional. Assim como em outras nações, com o Dia de São Valentim, a comunidade LGBTQ+ no Brasil abraçou o feriado como um momento para celebrar seus relacionamentos abertamente, desafiando normas tradicionais e contribuindo para um entendimento mais inclusivo do amor. A importância do dia na cultura brasileira estende-se além do amor romântico; é uma celebração da calorosidade, paixão e vivacidade características da vida brasileira. Destaca a importância de expressar amor e afeto, não apenas em grandes gestos, mas também nas interações do dia a dia. O Dia dos Namorados serve como um lembrete do papel central que o amor, em todas as suas formas, desempenha na experiência humana, especialmente no contexto vibrante e diversificado da sociedade brasileira. O Dia dos Namorados é mais do que apenas um feriado comercial no Brasil; é um dia repleto de significado cultural, refletindo o ethos de calor, afeto e inclusividade da nação. É uma celebração que reúne pessoas de todas as idades e origens, unidas na linguagem universal do amor.

Africa

Jun

Diabetes Week (UK): June 9-15

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Diabetes Week in the United Kingdom aims to uncover the truth about diabetes, what it’s like to live with it, and what you wish everyone knew about living with it. Throughout the year, Diabetes UK cultivates diabetes truths from those living with the disease. People with diabetes are asked to share what they’d like people to know about diabetes and the diabetes myths they’d like to bust. You can register your interest in the campaign by emailing diabetesweek@diabetes.org.uk.

Africa

Jun

Dialogue Among Civilizations, Intl. Day for: June 10

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PROMOTING PEACE BETWEEN CIVILIZATIONS: INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR DIALOGUE AMONG CIVILIANS The International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, observed annually on June 10, aims to promote mutual understanding, tolerance, and cooperation among people of different civilizations. The day encourages dialogue to bridge cultural and civilizational divides, fostering a culture of peace and coexistence. Objectives of the day include: Promote Mutual Understanding Foster understanding and respect among diverse cultures and civilizations. Encourage Dialogue Encourage open and constructive dialogue to address common challenges and conflicts. Enhance Cooperation Promote cooperation and collaboration among different civilizations to build a peaceful world. Highlight Cultural Diversity Celebrate cultural diversity as a valuable asset for human development and global peace. WHAT IS A "CIVILIZATION"? In academic terms, a civilization is a complex human society characterized by urban development, social stratification, a form of government, symbolic communication systems (such as writing), and shared cultural traits, values, and norms. Civilizations typically exhibit advancements in the arts, science, architecture, and trade, and they often significantly impact their environment and neighboring societies. The terms "civilization" and "culture" are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different concepts. Here are the key differences between the two: CHARACTERISTICS OF A CIVILIZATION Urban Development: Presence of cities and urban centers. Social Stratification: Hierarchical social structure with different classes and roles. Government: Established forms of governance and political systems. Writing Systems: Development of written language and record-keeping. Cultural Achievements: Significant advancements in various fields such as art, science, architecture, and literature. Economic Systems: Complex economic activities, including trade, agriculture, and industry. Civilizations are large and encompass multiple cultures. They represent a higher level of societal organization and development. Examples: —Ancient Egyptian Civilization —Roman Civilization —Chinese Civilization —Mayan Civilization CHARACTERISTICS OF A CULTURE Culture refers to a particular group's ideas, customs, social behaviors, beliefs, and practices. It includes language, religion, cuisine, traditions, and arts shared by a group and passed down through generations. Attributes include: Beliefs and Values: Shared beliefs, values, and norms. Customs and Traditions: Specific practices, rituals, and traditions unique to a group. Language: Common language or dialects spoken by the group. Art and Literature: Creative expressions, including music, dance, visual arts, and literature. Social Practices: Everyday behaviors and social practices, such as marriage customs, family structures, and social etiquette. Material Culture: Physical objects and artifacts created and used by the group, such as clothing, tools, and buildings. Culture is smaller in scope compared to civilization and can exist within any level of societal organization, from small communities to large societies. Multiple cultures can coexist within a single civilization. Examples: —Italian Culture —Japanese Culture —Jewish Culture —Navajo Culture In essence, civilization refers to a large, organized society with advanced characteristics, while culture refers to the specific ways of life of groups within or across such societies. PRIMARY CURRENT CIVILIZATIONS Civilizations are often fluid and can be defined in various ways. According to the widely recognized framework proposed by political scientist Samuel P. Huntington in his book "The Clash of Civilizations," there are several major contemporary civilizations, including: Western Civilization Encompasses North America and Western Europe. Latin American Civilization Includes Central and South America. Orthodox Civilization Primarily found in Eastern Europe and Russia. Islamic Civilization It spans parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Sinic Civilization Centers on China and East Asia. Hindu Civilization It is predominantly found in the Indian subcontinent. Japanese Civilization Unique to Japan. African Civilization Includes various distinct cultures within sub-Saharan Africa. Buddhist Civilization Includes countries in East Asia and Southeast Asia. Distinct cultural identities and historical experiences characterize these civilizations. The exact number and classification of civilizations can vary depending on the criteria used by different scholars. EVENT HISTORY The International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2001 through Resolution 56/6. Iran proposed the initiative, which was endorsed by UNESCO. It reflects a global commitment to promoting dialogue and understanding among different cultures and civilizations. The observance of this day emerged from the recognition of increasing global interdependence and the need to address conflicts and misunderstandings arising from cultural and civilizational differences. The day highlights the importance of dialogue in achieving peaceful coexistence and sustainable development. HOW TO PARTICIPATE People and organizations worldwide participate in various activities to celebrate the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. These activities foster dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among cultural and civilizational groups. Activities include: Educational Programs Schools, universities, and cultural institutions organize seminars, lectures, and workshops to discuss the importance of dialogue among civilizations. Cultural Exchanges Cultural exchange programs, exhibitions, and performances showcase the diversity of civilizations and promote mutual respect. Dialogue Forums Public forums, panel discussions, and roundtable meetings bring together representatives from different cultures and civilizations to engage in constructive dialogue. Interfaith Dialogues Religious leaders and communities participate in interfaith dialogues to promote understanding and tolerance among religious traditions. Community Events Local communities organize cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and storytelling sessions to celebrate cultural diversity and foster dialogue. The International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations is crucial in promoting global peace and understanding. By encouraging dialogue and cooperation, the day helps to bridge cultural divides, resolve conflicts, and build a more harmonious world. It underscores the importance of cultural diversity as a source of enrichment and strength, fostering a global culture of peace and coexistence.

Africa

Jun

Discovery Day, Newfoundland, Labrador (CA)(1497): June 23

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On June 24, 1497, John Cabot discovered Newfoundland in what was to become Canada. It is a provincial holiday in the regions of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, on the Monday closest to June 24 of each year.

Africa

Jun

Dog Bite Awareness Week, Ntl.: June 1-8

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More than 5,400 postal employees were attacked by dogs in the United States in 2021. From nips and bites to vicious attacks, aggressive dog behavior poses a serious threat to postal employees and the public. To highlight the enormity of this serious issue, the U.S. Postal Service is providing information on the do’s and don’ts of responsible dog ownership as part of its annual National Dog Bite Awareness Week public service campaign. “Every year, thousands of postal employees are attacked by dogs as they deliver America’s mail. And while it’s a dog’s natural instinct to protect their family and home, we ask all customers to act responsibly by taking safety precautions with their dogs while the mail is being delivered,” said USPS Employee Safety and Health Awareness Manager Leeann Theriault. “When a carrier comes to the residence, keep the dog inside the house and away from the door — or behind a fence on a leash — to avoid an attack.” Cleveland, Ohio is the city with the most postal dog attacks at 58 in 2021, followed by Houston, Texas, Kansas City Missouri, Los Angeles California and Louisville Kentucky.

Africa

Jun

Donald Duck Day (1934): June 9*

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Donald Duck Day (Take 2) marks the first appearance of Donald Duck on June 9, 1934, in "The Wise Little Hen" cartoon feature. Donald Duck Day (Take 1) celebrates the character's birthday, March 13, 1914.

Africa

Jun

Doughnut Day, Ntl.: June 6

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National Donut (Doughnut) Day commemorates a 1938 marketing campaign deployed by the Salvation Army and created by Dr. Morgan Pett during WWI. National Donut Day began as a gesture by Morgan Pett, a military doctor treating wounded soldiers during the First World War. As he was helping the soldiers, he would give a donut to raise their spirits. One soldier who particularly appreciated the gesture was Lieutenant General Samuel Geary. He and Pett later created a fundraiser to make sure every injured soldier treated received the ‘edible lifesaver’ we call a donut. This gesture caught the attention of the Salvation Army, who, in turn, began using it with the soldiers assigned in France starting in 1938. During National Donut Day, shops offer free donuts to customers.

Africa

Jun

Drive-in Movie Day (1933): June 6

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Drive-in Movie Day commemorates this iconic American symbol, the drive-in movie theater. Mr. Richard M. Hollingshead Jr developed the drive-in movie theater. His first unit opened in New Jersey on June 6, 1933, with space for 400 cars. The first movie shown was an Adolphe Meniou movie entitled "Wife Beware."

Africa

Jun

Drug Abuse and Trafficking, World Day Against (1839): June 26

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World Day Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking was declared by the United Nations through General Assembly Resolution 42/112. This awareness campaign highlights the fight against drug abuse, the illegal drug trade, and more robust courses of action toward creating a drug abuse-free international society. June 26 commemorates the anniversary of Lin Zexu's breaking of the Guangdong opium trade before the first Opium Wars in China in 1839. With his workers, it took 23 days to dump more than one million kilograms of opium into the ocean.

Africa

Jun

Ducasse de Mons, Doudou (BE)(1349): June 11-17

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Ducasse de Mons (Doudou) is an eight-day festival running Sunday through Sunday, including a Friday night concert, festivities, the procession, Car d'Or, and the fight between Saint George and the dragon Sunday afternoon. On June 2, 1349, Mons, Belgium, managed to defeat the Black Plague when the entire town transported the shrine of Waltrude to the village of Casteau. The villagers considered it a miracle and now celebrate the abolishment of the plague every year on Trinity Sunday since 1352. The Ducasse de Mons is the celebration of that event. Each year a procession carries Waltrude's Shrine through the town, beginning with a torchlight handover on Saturday night. The following morning, the shrine lands in a gold horse-drawn wagon (Car d'Or), which needs to climb a very steep cobblestone hill (Rampe Sainte-Waudru) in one try if the town's good fortune continues for another year. Since the horses cannot do this alone, hundreds of onlookers assist the cart over the hill. Once it crests the hill, legend says the town will be free from significant disasters for another year. The festival concludes with the battle between Saint George and the dragon, the Lumeçon, in the central town square of Mons. Dogs, devils, dragons, and saints, you have to see to believe. Header Image: Daniel71953 at fr.Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Africa

Jun

Dysphagia Awareness Month, Ntl.: June

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Dysphagia Awareness Month educates the public about Dysphagia, including how to detect and cure it. Dysphagia is the general term attributed to the difficulty of swallowing, a condition that affects people of all ages. One of this month's objectives is to connect sufferers with experts who can help them.

Africa

Jun

E-mail Week, Ntl.: June 8-14

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Email has become the preferred method of communication for business. As of 2010, texting and social media applications have quickly surpassed email as the favorite form of non-professional interaction. The sheer volume of emails we receive is a matter of concern for many people. Spam, unsolicited, and at times, malicious emails clog mailboxes, leading to wasted time and fraud in the case of malfeasants. National Email Week's primary purpose is to raise awareness of emails' do's and don'ts while providing tips that allow people to manage their email correspondences.

Africa

Jun

Eid al-Adha (M): June 6/7

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Eid al-Adha is one of the two religious holidays observed by Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the obedience of Abraham to God when He commanded Abraham to sacrifice his son Ishmael at Mount Moriah. But, the angel Jibra’il (Gabrial) stopped him at the last minute. Eid al-Adha is a significant holiday in Islamic majority nations and often lasts five days. The celebration begins with a prayer and then with a sermon. Eid al-Adha is part of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Also called the Feast of Sacrifice, it is on this day that Muslims buy udhiya or asqurbani, usually a goat or a sheep, for the sacrifice. The animal is killed, and the meat is divided into three parts. One part is given to relatives, the second to neighbors, and the family keeps the third. If you are Christian or Jewish, you’re probably doing a double-take at those mentioned above. Rest assured, the above is not a typo. In Islam, it is Ishmael portrayed in the story. In Christianity and Judaism, it is Isaac. The importance of this goes to lineage and the prophet Mohammed. Jesus is descended from Abraham through Isaac. Mohammed from Abraham through Ishmael. Isaac and Ishmael have the same father but different mothers. The story of the sacrifice, which Eid al-Adha celebrates, is one of the key departure points of the three faiths of the Book. How Jesus Christ is defined, and the resurrection is another. The Jewish faith believes Jesus was simply a rabbi (teacher), nothing more. The Muslims believe He was a prophet but was not killed on the cross; instead, God replaced Him with another man before He died, which means He was not resurrected. Christians believe Jesus is the Messiah promised to Abraham and the Israelites and the fulfillment of biblical prophecy. He was sacrificed on the cross and resurrected three days later. All three faiths follow the first five books of the Old Testament. Each, however, has its different interpretations of it. Eid al-Adha is an example of an event interpreted differently by the three faiths, and it is celebrated in Islam, but not Christianity or Judaism.

Africa

Jun

Elder Abuse Awareness Day, World: June 15

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Elder abuse is a global social issue affecting the health and human rights of millions of elderly persons worldwide. It is an issue deserving the attention of the international community, as well as action by it. This day gives voice to older people and focuses on the situations that breed abuse and suffering while raising awareness of the resources available to older adults and caretakers to prevent harm from occurring in the first place.

Africa