Nagasaki International Women's Association (NIWA)

Did you know that International Friendship Day is held annually on July 30th? The United National General Assembly made International Friendship Day official in July of 2011. However, the idea of a day designated for friendship has been around for nearly 100 years. Joyce Hall, founder of Hallmark Cards, originally promoted the concept in the 1920`s and 30`s. While the holiday gained speed initially, eventually it met with criticism, being seen as a commercial gimmick. Friendship Day wained in popularity until the late 1950`s, when Dr. Artemio Bracho of Paraguay proposed an international day of friendship to be held annually on July 20th. The holiday again picked up steam, becoming popular in several South American countries before going global with its recognition by the United Nations.

We may have missed our chance officially this year, but we can still promote friendship, international and local, on a daily basis. By taking time to talk, share stories, and exchange cultural customs through education and public awareness we can continue to honor friendship and love.