Further to the adoption of UNESCO’s Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity in November 2001, the General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed 21 May as World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development (Resolution 57/249).

The Day will provide us with an opportunity to deepen understanding of the values of Cultural Diversity and to learn to “live together” better. This is why UNESCO appeals to the Member States as well as to all civil society to celebrate this World Day by involving as many actors and partners as possible.

• Racha Arodaky, Fadhel Messaoudi and Shahrokh Moshkin Ghalam: Cultural Diversity Concert

Friday 20 May 2011, UNESCO, Room I, 7.30 p.m (for invitations contact 01 45 68 17 47).

A fusion of Baroque music with Arabic music, piano and oud, performed by Racha Arodaky and Fadhel Messaoudi, followed by a contemporary dance performance of the Persian legend of Arash Kamngir (Arash the archer) by the dancer and choreographer Shahrokh Moshkin Ghalam in this two-part concert held to celebrate the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.

• What is the fate of Public Art? International Conference

Thursday 19 May 2011, Cergy-Pontoise, 10 a.m to 7 p.m.
Friday 20 May 2011, UNESCO, 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. (by invitation)

Architects and artists of international renown as well as decision-makers will meet for two days to discuss public art and its future under four thematic headings, namely: the creation of urban space, the people’s perception of public art in contemporary urban settings, the need to preserve public art and the economic and social impact of public art.

•  Do One Thing for Diversity and Inclusion 

In partnership with the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, UNESCO invites everyone to join the “Do ONE Thing for Diversity and Inclusion” campaign. Show your commitment to supporting cultural diversity and understanding by doing ONE thing for diversity. Join the campaign on Facebook and share what you will do to commemorate World Day for Cultural Diversity.

• Programme of the International Festival for Cultural Diversity 2011 (pdf)
• Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity (pdf)
• Celebrations in Cuba (Spanish Only)

The UNESCO Regional Office for Culture in Latin America and the Caribbean is celebrating World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, May 21. These events are organized jointly with the Ministry of Culture of Cuba, the Cuban National Commission for UNESCO and the Cuban Association of the United Nations.