Celebrating 20 Years of Respect, Kindness, and Shared Humanity
Each year on October 15, people around the world come together to celebrate Global Dignity Day—a day dedicated to honouring the intrinsic value and equality of every human being. The movement invites individuals, especially young people, to reflect on what dignity means to them and how they can express respect, empathy, and kindness in everyday life. At its heart, Global Dignity Day reminds us that dignity is a universal principle that transcends culture, geography, and circumstance.
Every year, Global Dignity Day unites schools, organizations, and communities through storytelling, art, and conversation. Participants are encouraged to share their personal experiences, learn from one another, and explore ways to nurture respect and inclusion within their surroundings. These local celebrations—whether in classrooms, workplaces, or public spaces—reflect the belief that dignity grows through action, empathy, and human connection.
About Global Dignity
Global Dignity was established in 2005 by Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, Professor Pekka Himanen of Finland, and John Hope Bryant of the United States—three members of the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders. Their shared vision was to spark a global dialogue about dignity as a cornerstone of human interaction and social progress. What began as a simple idea has since evolved into an international movement reaching millions of students, educators, and community leaders in more than 80 countries.
In 2025, Global Dignity Day celebrates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of inspiring people worldwide to live with compassion, understanding, and integrity. This year’s milestone focuses on restoring trust and unity in an era of division and uncertainty. As the movement looks ahead, it continues to emphasize dignity as the foundation for peaceful coexistence, cooperation, and lasting social change.
Participating in Global Dignity Day means embracing dignity not as an abstract concept, but as a daily practice. It calls on each of us to listen with empathy, act with fairness, and stand up for the worth of others. On October 15, communities across the globe reaffirm a simple yet transformative idea: every person matters—and every act of respect strengthens the world we share.
2025 Global Dignity Day Events in Canada
On October 9, 2025, as part of the twentieth anniversary of Global Dignity, Art Borups Corners and artists Eva Suluk, Tony Eetak, Krish Agrawal, and Jamie Bell were recognized alongside Global Dignity Canada in the House of Commons by Prescott–Russell–Cumberland Member of Parliament Giovanna Mingarelli.
To continue the celebration, on Wednesday, October 15, we’ll host a pop-up video/photo exhibition highlighting moments from our Summer 2025 Arts Internship, Mentorship, and Capacity Building Program. The exhibition will showcase the creativity, collaboration, and community spirit that shaped this year’s cohort.
This year’s activities are made possible through support from Global Dignity Canada, the Ontario Arts Council Multi and Inter-Arts Projects program, The Arts Incubator Winnipeg and the Minneapolis College of Art and Design Creative Entrepreneurship Program.
We’ll also hold a special online group session at 2:00 p.m. CST with our partners in Minnesota, Ontario and Nunavut to share reflections, stories, and insights.
Where Dignity Grows: 20 short stories for 20 years of Global Dignity
To commemorate two decades of fostering dignity and kindness, members of Global Dignity Canada launched a heartwarming community arts project. Youth and artists who have volunteered and supported the organization’s work have come together to publish a collection of 20 short stories, all centered on the themes of dignity and kindness.
This unique project, developed as part of an interdisciplinary arts project, was made possible with funding from the Ontario Arts Council Multi and Inter-Arts Projects program and the Art Borups Corners Storytelling Club. The project was not only an opportunity to learn but also a chance to contribute to a meaningful cause.
This special book of short stories is available from: Apple Books, Barnes and Noble, bol.com, bol.de, Casa De Libro, Cultura, Decitre, eBook.de, Everand, Ex Libris, Fable, Hugendubel, Indigo Chapters, Internet Bookstore Italia, La Feltrinelli, Librarie E. Leclerc, Librería de Porrúa, Morawa, Orell Füssli, Palace Marketplace, PChome 24h, Rakuten Kobo, Smashwords, Standaard Boekhandel, Thalia, Vivlio, and 楽天ブックス
To celebrate Global Dignity Day 2025 and 20 years of Global Dignity, Where Dignity Grows can be downloaded for free on Smashwords using coupon code CEFH2.
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