India, along with some other countries, celebrates Commonwealth Day on May 24. (Image: Shutterstock)
Commonwealth Day focuses on the goals of helping each other to improve healthcare, education, employment and sport, and to protect each other’s environment
Commonwealth Day is celebrated around the world on March 13 every year. On the other hand, India celebrates it on May 24 along with some other countries. With ‘Forging a Sustainable and Peaceful Common Future’ as the theme this year, Commonwealth Day, also known as Empire Day, aims to unite 2.5 billion Commonwealth citizens in celebration of their shared values and principles and strive for a common future, focused on sustainability and peace.
Speeches are made to mark the day, and exhibitions and cultural events are held in the 56 member states of the Commonwealth. Commonwealth Day also focuses on the goals of helping each other to improve health care, education, employment and sport and to protect each other’s environment.
Commonwealth Day 2023: history
The history of Commonwealth Day dates back to 1902, when it was originally established to honor Queen Victoria following her death on January 22, 1901. The first celebration of this memorial day took place on May 24, 1902, coinciding with Queen Victoria’s birthday. However, it wasn’t until 1916 that Empire Day, as it was then known, was officially recognized as an annual event.
Lord Meath in 1916 played a vital role in extending Empire Day festivities beyond national borders, making it a significant historical event. Years later, in 1958, the then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Harold Macmillan, embracing the evolving nature of the relationship between member states, announced that Empire Day would be renamed Commonwealth Day.
Commonwealth Day 2023: Theme
Commonwealth Day serves as an opportunity to raise awareness and highlight the achievements of 54 Commonwealth countries in various areas such as tackling climate change and promoting gender equality. This year’s theme of Commonwealth Day is “Forging a Sustainable and Peaceful Common Future”, which also reflects the shared commitment of member countries to build a better and united future.
Commonwealth Day 2023: meaning
The day stands for unity, solidarity and brotherhood. It has symbolic value as it embodies unity and serves as a platform for Commonwealth members to reaffirm their unwavering commitment to equality, peace and democracy. Commonwealth Day 2023 also aims to foster a sense of humanity and foster solidarity, emphasizing the collective pursuit of a harmonious and interconnected world.
