International Migrants Day

International Migrants Day History

International Migrants Day seeks to promote the well-being and rights of migrants worldwide. The day is dedicated to recognizing the numerous contributions and achievements of migrants and raising awareness about the need for improving conditions, safety measures and social acceptance for these individuals and their families. This observance stresses the importance of fostering greater understanding, empathy, and dialogue around issues faced by migrants, with emphasis on inclusive policies and practices for integration.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed International Migrants Day in December 2000, following the adoption of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. For Americans, this day offers a crucial opportunity to reflect on the integral role that immigrants have played in shaping the history, culture, and economy of the country. As the United States is often described as a nation built by immigrants, the celebration of International Migrants Day aligns with the core values of diversity, equality, and the pursuit of a better life that are enshrined in the American dream.

International Migrants Day is observed across America with various events and activities such as conferences, seminars, community gatherings, and cultural performances aimed at addressing the challenges faced by migrants while also celebrating their unique stories and cultural heritages. These events serve as platforms for advocacy and education, promoting a better understanding of migration issues and fostering cooperation between governments, civil society organizations, and the wider public. International Migrants Day is celebrated each year on the 18th of December.

Facts & quotes about International Migrants Day

• The theme for International Migrants Day in 2023 was Free to choose whether to migrate or to stay.
• There are 65 million and counting refugees around the world. Most refugee are Syrian followed by Afghans, with 4.2 million and 2.6 million refugees, respectively.
• As of 2021, Turkey, Columbia and Uganda are the largest refugee-hosting countries in the world. Turkey has received 3.7 million refugees, who are mostly Syrians, while Columbia hosts 1.7 million, which are made up by displaced Venezuelans.
• Remember, remember always, that all of us, and you and I especially, are descended from immigrants and revolutionists. ― Franklin D. Roosevelt
• Recognize yourself in he and she who are not like you and me. ― Carlos Fuentes

In the News and Trending in the US for International Migrants Day

Top things to do in the US for International Migrants Day

• Since International Migrants Day is also a celebration of multiculturalism, try some food or drink from a different country. Have you tried a Cumberland sausage (UK), baklava (central Asian) or sake (Japan)? Enjoy a night out to a restaurant to enjoy different types of foods.
• The stories and events of migration are literally world-changing. There are countless films that each tell a different story of migration through time. Some of our recommendations: The Immigrant (1917), Children of Men (2006) or The Kite Runner (2007).
• Donate tinned food, clothes, tents, medicine and bottled water to relief efforts for refugees. With more refugees than any time since World War II, the world needs help caring for so many homeless people. Your donations could be life-saving for millions of people who are struggling. Médecins Sans Frontières, Unicef and Islamic Relief are well known organizations for their work in this field.
• Read some books that tackle migration. Try What is the What by Dave Eggers, Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai or They Poured Fire on us From the Sky: The True Story of Three Lost Boys from Sudan by Benjamin Ajak.
• Explore your own heritage and ancestry. Humans have been constantly on the move for thousands of years. Did your ancestors migrate? Why? Lots of census data is available online and records are available in libraries and other civic institutions.