Commonwealth Day 2024: On March 11 this year, Commonwealth Day, an annual movable holiday that typically occurs on the second Monday of March, is observed. The British royal family attends a ceremony at Westminster Abbey to commemorate the day. Commonwealth states engage in widespread jubilation worldwide.
The historical occurrence is observed as a state holiday in certain jurisdictions, paying homage to the group’s past. Through an annual address by Queen Elizabeth, it seeks to inspire Commonwealth states about the future and promote a peaceful global environment.
Commonwealth Day History
Even though Commonwealth Day is now a widely observed holiday with an approximate global population of 2 billion individuals, its origins were less auspicious and it was not originally known as such. Originally designated as “Empire Day,” this occasion was founded in 1902 to pay homage to Queen Victoria. A proposal was made the year following the death of Queen Victoria to institute a national holiday in remembrance of England, the Commonwealth’s unity of nations, and its guiding principles of tolerance, justice, and liberty.
Empire Day was not formally acknowledged until 1916, fourteen years after it had been observed clandestinely in Canada. A genuine surge in popularity occurred after an additional decade passed; in 1925, an Empire Day Thanksgiving celebration at Wembley Stadium attracted an estimated attendance of 90,000 individuals.
Harold MacMillan, the Prime Minister at the time, renamed Empire Day Commonwealth Day in 1958. This is because the Commonwealth as a whole shares culture, history, legal systems, and more. The Commonwealth Secretariat designated the second Monday of March as the observance day in 1973, following a proposal by the Royal Commonwealth Society to alter the date.
In the contemporary postcolonial era, the moral standing of the Commonwealth is a subject of considerable debate. Although certain nations continue to regard it as a significant and dignified event in history, and some even continue to honor the Queen of England as their monarch, the question of whether or not it is a problematic holiday is becoming an increasingly popular topic of discussion. Several Commonwealth nations were, at various points in time, impeded from attaining independence; for some, this serves as a poignant reminder of the brutality of colonialism.
However, numerous countries continue to enthusiastically observe Commonwealth Day. Several Commonwealth member states observe Commonwealth Day as a national holiday, except Britain, which is the only one. There are celebrations and other gatherings, delectable meals are prepared, and flags are hoisted. On Commonwealth Day, a great number of individuals tune in to Westminster Abbey to witness the service, hear the Queen’s address, and experience a profound sense of pride in the historic alliance that is the Commonwealth.
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FAQs on Commonwealth Day
What purpose does Commonwealth Day serve?
In recent years, there has been a transition from one-day celebrations to weeklong events, with the inaugural day of Commonwealth Day serving as the focal point. The objective is to promote a deeper comprehension of the Commonwealth’s accomplishments and functions while commemorating the modern Commonwealth’s cohesion, diversity, and connections.
What is Commonwealth Day in Britain?
Commonwealth Day is observed in over fifty countries worldwide. It is envisioned as a commemoration of the cultural exchange and shared values of former Empire states; it was formerly known as Empire Day. The concept of commemorating Britain’s colonial history is undeniably a subject of contention in the present day.
Who presides over the Commonwealth nations?
Queen Elizabeth II, Her Majesty, is the Head of the Commonwealth. Her function is symbolic.
Methods of Observing Commonwealth Day
Exploration of Commonwealth Literature
Commemorate Commonwealth Day by delving into the abundant literary legacy of the member nations. Discover new voices from around the world or reread classics. From the St. Lucian poetry of Derek Walcott to the Indian novelist R.K. Narayan.
Prepare and distribute Commonwealth dishes
Indulge your gustatory senses in the cuisines of the various member nations. One possibility is to coordinate a luncheon with companions, wherein each participant contributes a dish that symbolizes a distinct Commonwealth nation.
A record of a virtual excursion
Construct a digital itinerary encompassing multiple Commonwealth nations through an investigation into the distinctive cultural, historical, and geographical features of each country. Family and acquaintances can learn about the world alongside you by sharing this virtual journey.
Coordinate an international fashion exhibition
Coordinate a fashion exhibition that pays homage to the customary attire of Commonwealth member states. By researching and presenting garments from various cultures, participants can promote unity and diversity.
Gather for a discussion on Commonwealth Day.
Initiate a discourse group centered on contemporary affairs, historical occurrences, and cultural subjects about Commonwealth nations. This would be an excellent opportunity to commemorate and gain knowledge about the diversity that exists within the Commonwealth.
Five Unveiled Commonwealth Day Secrets
‘Commonwealth’ is derived from an archaic English phrase.
The term ‘Commonwealth’ is a nod to the ancient English phrase ‘common weal’ and represents the common good or public welfare, which is a central theme in the observance of Commonwealth Day.
Commonwealth Day is observed with a special message from the Queen.
Queen Elizabeth II, in her capacity as Head of the Commonwealth, annually delivers a special address that is globally disseminated and televised, emphasizing the solidarity and common objectives of this interconnected community of member states.
The Commonwealth Flag is the distinctive emblem of Commonwealth Day.
The Commonwealth flag, which is blue and yellow, is raised on this day to symbolize the solidarity among its member nations. The flag’s center is a golden globe with 34 spears surrounding it, each of which stands for a founding member country.
The themes of Commonwealth Day are as varied as its participants.
An annual theme is chosen to guide the commemoration of Commonwealth Day. These themes, which span from “Delivering a Common Future” in 2020 to “A New Generation” in 2000, encapsulate the objectives, ambitions, and essence of the Commonwealth.
Numerous Commonwealth member states observe a national Commonwealth Day.
While observed worldwide on the same day, specific member nations designate an additional day of the year as their national Commonwealth Day to promote local appreciation and understanding of the Commonwealth’s values.
COMMONWEALTH DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | March 11 | Monday |
| 2025 | March 10 | Monday |
| 2026 | March 9 | Monday |
