Producing a United Nations Day programme is similar to producing any civic or community programme. All effective programmes have a focus (a theme or issue that appeals to a wide audience – and is especially appealing when that topic coincides with community concerns), a format that allows for the participation of considerable numbers of people, organization and careful planning (including any relevant financial considerations). A UN Day programme should be a community observance that celebrates both the international co-operative spirit and the positive contributions Canada has made – and should continue to make – to the United Nations and its extensive multilateral system.
The content, format and audience for any programme can differ dramatically. They will obviously reflect the interests and resources of the organizers. The UN’s agenda encompasses virtually any issue which touches the global community. The scope of outreach can often be enhanced significantly if there is collaboration between groups and interests which have mutually supportive agendas. The following are only examples of the kinds of activities which can be organized to mark United Nations Day - October 24.
- Show the flag. Arrange to have the UN flag flown in public places, such as at schools and in front of civic or other government buildings. Such occasions, whether they are simply ceremonial or include special ceremonies and receptions, advertise the UN’s rootedness in the community and its special place in Canadian life.
- Organize a conference or seminar that addresses any one of the current issues on the UN’s agenda. This is especially appropriate at local colleges or universities; in collaboration with parliamentarians, government officials or research institutions; or as a joint initiative among a number of organizations all interested in a specific issue. Proceedings and/or conference recommendations should be sent to Government offices, as well as to participants and others.
- Hold a public event that will attract a general public audience. It could be a multicultural festival; a musical or theatre event; a reception to honour community individuals for their work in fostering a better world for us all (aid workers, peace-keepers, election monitors); or a demonstration to call attention to some particular crisis or situation which calls out for action on the part of our Government or us, as Canadian citizens.
- Organize luncheons or dinners, with a speech by an individual or by members of a panel. All kinds of organizations, such as Rotary or other service clubs, hold regular meetings and often welcome suggestions for speakers.
- Contact the local media (television, radio, newspapers, etc) and encourage them to cover events, to include articles which focus on the UN, or to invite spokespersons to talk shows or other interview situations. Make it easy by offering to help identify local contacts who can either speak or write on the issues – and can make the global/local connections real.
- Take the United Nations into the schools. Hold a Special
Assembly – with a guest from the community who has served overseas
as a peace-keeper or aid worker; set up a display case on UN information;
have a school or class debate on a UN topic; link UN Day to Halloween
and the special UNICEF box programme; fly the UN flag, either in front
of the school or inside, beside the Canadian flag, to make the connection
between our country and the broader world community; hold a Model
UN; etc. With creative thinking a teacher can build an international
component into many subjects that day – different foods in nutrition;
literature from other countries; an art or writing assignment that
asks students to create their vision of a better world; an international
context for history or geography classes; etc.
- Guides and Scouts have badges which focus on the world, including the UN. Make this a time to start – or complete - these challenges.
- Express your individual opinions about the role Canada could – or should – play as a Member State of the United Nations. This is particularly relevant at a time when the global community is wrestling with appropriate responses to dramatic new levels of terrorism. Write your Member of Parliament or the Office of the Prime Minister. Your opinion matters.
- Add your voice to the thousands of other individual Canadians
who support the United Nations and a positive active Canadian role
in that organization by becoming
a member of the United Nations Association in Canada. There may
even be a local Branch
of UNA-Canada in your community which would welcome your participation
in local events.
