In 1999, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed a recommendation that August 12 be declared International Youth Day. The day focuses on a theme, determined from input from youth organizations around the world, to raise awareness about a situation related to youth culture, and to encourage young people to bring peace and change to the world. The 2022 theme is "Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for All Ages." According to the UN, "Solidarity across generations is key for sustainable development. We must collaborate to foster successful and equitable intergenerational relations and partnerships to ensure 'no one is left behind'."
Young people around the world report age-related barriers when it comes to employment, participating in political movements, health management and social justice. Ageism prevents society from developing policies and services that are fair for all ages.
How to Celebrate/Recognize International Youth Day
- Ask your children to make a list of issues young people face in our country.
- Discuss ageism with your older kids, and identify ways you've both experienced it throughout your lives.
- Research International Youth Day events in three other countries, to learn more about youth culture and concerns abroad.
- Have your child identify one issue area they are most passionate about, and create a vision board using magazines and newspaper clippings to map a personal journey toward making an impact in that area.
- Research organizations that connect kids on a global level and encourage your child to correspond with a pen-pal in another country. Here are a few recommendations.
