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National Heritage Day in South Africa: What is Heritage Day and Why Do We Celebrate It

Sep 13, 2021 | News , South Africa

First published in September 2019, updated in September 2021.

September is Heritage Month in South Africa, with  National Heritage Day celebrated on 24 September

Each year in early spring, people across the nation get together to eat, drink and be merry, celebrating what makes us all uniquely South African.

Heritage Day was declared a public holiday in 1996 and, since then, the 24th of September has been a day that encourages us to celebrate our cultural traditions, communities and heritage.

In the following post, we discuss South Africa’s Heritage Day; how it began, the connection to braais and how you can celebrate this year.

What is Heritage Day?

Heritage Day is a public holiday celebrated on 24 September in South Africa that recognises and celebrates the cultural diversity of the country. In its essence, the day embraces and celebrates the true meaning of why we call ourselves the Rainbow Nation.

South Africans mark the day by wearing traditional outfits, eating traditional foods, learning about different cultures and spending time with friends and family.

The History of Heritage Day in South Africa

The 24th of September marks ‘Shaka Day’ or ‘Shaka’s Day’, a day which commemorates the legendary King Shaka Zulu. Shaka Zulu played an important role in uniting different Zulu clans into one cohesive Zulu nation in Kwa-Zulu Natal. Each year, thousands of people gather at King Shaka’s grave to pay tribute to him and to honour his memory.

To learn more about the history, life and legend of King Shaka Zulu, the Anglo Zulu war and Zulu culture, book either the:

• KwaZulu-Natal Shakaland Zulu Village Tour
• Half-Day Soweto Tour
• PheZulu Cultural Village Day Tour
• Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift Battlefields Tour
• Robben Island Half-Day Tour

You can also learn more about King Shaka in the book Shaka Zulu: The Biography of the Founder of the Zulu Nation by E.A. Ritter .

When the New South African Parliament omitted Shaka Day from the proposed Public Holidays Bill, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), a South African political party with a large Zulu membership, objected.

Eventually, a compromise was reached, and it was decided that a national holiday would be created where South Africans of all cultures and creeds could come together and celebrate their diverse cultural heritage.

In an address marking Heritage Day in 1996, the late former State President Nelson Mandela said, “When our first democratically-elected government decided to make Heritage Day one of our national days, we did so because we knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage has a profound power to help build our new nation.”

We did so, knowing that the struggles against the injustice and inequities of the past are part of our national identity; they are part of our culture. We knew that, if indeed our nation had to rise like the proverbial phoenix from the ashes of division and conflict, we had to acknowledge those whose selfless efforts and talents were dedicated to this goal of non-racial democracy.

In more recent years, National Heritage Day has become synonymous with National Braai (Barbecue) Day . Some call it Shisa Nyama or Ukosa , while others call it a braai , but whatever the occasion, nothing beats gathering around a wood fire to cook a meal and celebrate together.

Why Do We Braai on Heritage Day?

There is nothing more South African than lighting a fire and cooking a meal, and it’s something that crosses racial, cultural, religious and social boundaries. The National Braai Day in South Africa was developed by Stellenbosch native, Jan Scannell – more commonly known as ‘Jan Braai’ – who quit his job in finance in 2005 to focus on the National Braai Day Initiative.

Just like the Irish have St Patrick’s Day, the French have Bastille Day and Australians have Australia Day, National Braai Day calls on all South Africans to unite around fires and share and celebrate our unique culture and heritage.

In 2007, Archbishop Desmond Tutu became patron of South Africa’s Braai Day, backing the idea that donning an apron to braai a boerewors (farm sausage) could be a unifying force in a country that had been previously divided. The following year, the initiative received the endorsement of South Africa’s National Heritage Council. It couldn’t be a more apt way to bring a rich and culturally diverse nation such as South Africa together in unity, because what good South African doesn’t love a braai?

How You Can Celebrate Heritage Day

There are plenty of opportunities to celebrate South Africa. Here are six ways to enjoy this year’s Heritage Day. 

• Join chef Annie Badenhorst at Benguela Cove Wine Estate in Hermanus for their Heritage Day Braai on 24 September at 12pm. Guests can select either a delicious gourmet braai picnic basket, or share a flavourful braai platter. There will also be live music and great South African vibes.
• Celebrate with the Vrede en Lust Heritage Day Box which includes a selection of wines, traditional spices and condiments. It’s a great box to gift to friends or purchase for your own Heritage Day picnic or braai.
• Cape Town is known for its delectable traditional dishes, so why not learn how to make them. Spend Heritage Day by booking a cooking class to learn some of the local favourites such as koeksisters, braaivleis and gatsby. One of our personal favourites is the Cape Malay style cooking classes offered in the historic area of Bo-Kaap. Some of our favourite cooking classes are from Lekka Kombuis and Ginger and Lime . 
• Visit one of CapeNature’s 22 nature reserves in the Western Cape for free. Visitors to CapeNature can enjoy a free day entry to explore their natural heritage at selected reserve destinations from 13 to 20 September.
• Join a Heritage Day scenic cruise around the Durban Harbour. The cruise includes starters, a photoshoot, complimentary bottle of champagne (2 bottles per table of 10 people) and lunch.
• Discover the magic of Freedom Park in Pretoria with free entry on 24 September 2021. 

How to Celebrate Your Own South African Heritage Day Anywhere in the World

If you’re not in South Africa, you can still celebrate a South African Heritage Day by hosting your own braai (or barbecue).

Here are a few essentials to get your National Braai Day celebration going:

• Charcoal  
• A braai apron
• A complete grill tool set
• The Democratic Republic of Braai by Jan Braai recipe book
• A South African flag for decoration
• Ina Paarman’s Braai & Grill Seasoning to add some flavour to your meat (or vegetables)
• Your preferred selection of meat, vegetables, salads, bread and condiments

Whatever you choose to do to celebrate National Heritage Day, enjoy it with friends and family, wave the South African flag proudly, and remember your heritage and the place it holds in South Africa’s multicultural landscape.

Read about the other important public holidays in South Africa:

• What is Human Rights Day and Why We Celebrate on March 21
• What is Freedom Day in South Africa and Why Do We Celebrate It
• Why We Celebrate Youth Day on 16 June
• Why We Celebrate Women’s Day on August 9th

While not a public holiday, here’s how you can celebrate Mandela Day on 18 July .

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13 Comments

Nice information

Thank you! 🙂

[email protected]

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Letitia thanks for informative and helpful information

What is the name and surname of the person who published all this Information am doing a school project about heritage please reply

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This is one of the best posts I have ever came across. Today we celebrate Heritage day “online” as a corporate company and guess what ? I will be using some of YOUR information to share with our special people ! I have learned so much in 7 to 8 of your first sentences ! Brilliant – what a lovely layout and professional, yet super light and great for culture day celebrations! Happy Heritage day and have a wonderful “BRAAI” !!!! … en melktert !

Thank you so much Vicky! We’re delighted that you found the post valuable. Have a lekker Heritage Day! 🙂

Thank you. I’m grateful. My brother’s assignment benefited much from it, and I also picked up some new knowledge.

This is wonderful

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• My 6 favourite things about this Heritage Day weekend - Brat with a Blog - […] Thursday it was Heritage Day in South Africa. Heritage Day is a public holiday, so like many others Mr…
• Celebrate Heritage Day 2020  | Show National Pride This Heritage Day - […] African Travel Compass states that September 24th was originally Shaka Day. A day that commemorated the great Zulu king Shaka…
• 5 Historical sites you can visit this Heritage Day - Entertainment SA - […] Main Image: africantravel […]
• Heritage Month & Day - Leads 2 Business Blog - […] African Travel Canvas SA History National […]
• Braai, friends and pickled kumquats - Kriya Gangiah shares her take on Heritage Day - samachar24live.com - […] पहले ‘शाका दिवस’ कहा जाता था, 24 सितंबर महान राजा शाका ज़ुलु की याद दिलाता है, जो “क्वाज़ुलु-नताल में…

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What is Heritage Day and why its Important in South Africa

Heritage Day is an important South African public holiday which is celebrated on the 24 th of September each year. It is a day on which all South Africans are encouraged to celebrate their culture and the diversity of their beliefs and traditions, in the wider context of a nation that belongs to all its people. As the self-proclaimed ‘Rainbow Nation’, boasting a vibrant cultural diversity, eleven official languages, a rich and intricate history and a variety of traditions, Heritage Day is recognized and celebrated in many different ways in South Africa.

History of Heritage Day

Photo credit: Retlaw Snellac Photography (Flickr)

While many South Africans are aware of Heritage Day, how many know the history behind it, the true reason we celebrate this momentous holiday, and its connection to various cultures and traditions?

Heritage Day was initially known as ‘Shaka Day’ or ‘Shaka’s Day’, a day dedicated to commemorating the legendary King Shaka Zulu on the presumed date of his death in 1828. Shaka Zulu played an important role in uniting different Zulu clans into one cohesive Zulu nation in Kwa-Zulu Natal. To this day, thousands of people gather at the King Shaka Memorial on the 24 th  of September each year to pay tribute to the great Zulu King.

Photo credit: Jay Calvin (Flickr) | Shaka kaSenzangakhona (1780s -1828) Bronze Statue – ‘Long March to Freedom’ Monument

When the bill presented to the new post-Apartheid Parliament of South Africa in 1996 omitted Shaka Day from the proposed Public Holidays Bill, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), a South African political party with a large Zulu membership, strongly objected to the bill. Eventually, a compromise was reached between the Parliament and the ANC (African National Congress), and it was decided that a national holiday would be created where South Africans of all cultures and creeds could come together and celebrate their diverse cultural heritage – Giving rise to Heritage Day!

“When our first democratically-elected government decided to make Heritage Day one of our national days, we did so because we knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage has a profound power to help build our new nation.”

– Late former President Nelson Mandela in an address marking Heritage Day in 1996

In recent years, Heritage Day has further evolved and become synonymous with National Braai Day. Some call it Shisa Nyama or Ukosa, while others call it a braai. Regardless of what term you use, the intention remains the same – Gathering around a fire, enjoying good food, good company and celebrating your culture and heritage with friends, family, and the ones you love.

Why is Heritage Day Important in South Africa

South Africa ranks among the 10 most culturally diverse countries in the world. A county’s relative diversity is determined based on several factors and high-level considerations, including: Level of ethnic diversity; Number of immigrants; Number of spoken languages; Number of religious beliefs; Number of political parties; Level of religious freedom; LGBT rights and freedom; and Level of personal liberty. Each of these categories are further divided into sub-categories, to ultimately determine the level of cultural diversity in any given country.

In addition to being one of the most culturally diverse countries, the population of South Africa is one of the most complex and diverse in the world. It is because of this intricate and vast diversity that Heritage Day is so important in South Africa and should be celebrated by all its people. National Heritage Day is dedicated to recognizing the cultural wealth of our nation in its entirety. By acknowledging, embracing, and celebrating our various cultures, traditions, and heritage against the background of our unique diversity, we build pride in ourselves, our fellow South Africans, and our nation as we remember the difficulties and hardships of the past, share in the victories of the present, and raise hope for the future.

One of the most important aspects of Heritage Day is the fact that it exposes us as South Africans to different people, cultures, traditions, beliefs, and religions we may never have been exposed to or encountered otherwise. It encourages us to step outside of our own ‘cultural bubble’, and urges us to learn, grow, explore, and experience the vibrant and diverse range of cultures that exists within our glorious rainbow nation. And, in turn, allow us to understand, appreciate, recognize, and respect each culture and everything it embodies.

At the end of the day, we are ALL South Africans, and our ability to grow and learn from each other is not only endless, but a gift. This will further allow us to grow as individuals and contribute to a more unified South Africa.

Heritage Day therefore provides a great opportunity for all South Africans to put their differences in politics, perspectives, and opinions aside, to unite and come together in a single shared purpose and objective – To celebrate South Africa’s profound history and heritage TOGETHER AS ONE NATION!

Living Heritage

Another important aspect of South Africa’s heritage that should not be forgotten is living heritage. In essence, living heritage is the foundation of all communities and an essential source of identity and continuity. The various aspects of living heritage include: Cultural tradition; rituals; oral history; popular memory; performance; indigenous knowledge systems; techniques and skills; and the holistic approach to nature, society, and social relationships. In South Africa, the term ‘living heritage’ is used interchangeably with the term ‘intangible cultural heritage’.

Why is living heritage important and what role does it play? Living heritage plays a vital role in promoting cultural diversity, reconciliation, social cohesion, economic development, and peace. In every South African community, there are living human treasures who possess a high degree of knowledge, skills and history pertaining to different aspects of diverse living heritage. It is important for South Africans to reclaim, restore and preserve these various aspects of living heritage in order to promote and accelerate its use in addressing the various challenges communities are facing today.

South African Cultures

South Africa is the Rainbow Nation, a title that captures the country’s cultural and ethnic diversity. As mentioned, the population of South Africa is one of the most complex and diverse in the world.

South Africa’s black population is divided into four major ethnic groups; namely Nguni (Zulu, Xhosa, Ndebele, and Swazi), Sotho, Shangaan-Tsonga, and Venda. There are numerous subgroups within these main ethnic groups of which the Zulu and Xhosa (two subgroups of the Nguni group) are the largest.

The majority of South Africa’s white population (about 60%) is of Afrikaans descent, with many of the remaining 40% being of British or European descent. South Africa’s coloured population have a mixed lineage, which often comprises the indigenous Khoisan genes combined with African slaves that were brought here from all over the continent, and white settlers.

Languages in South Africa

South Africa has eleven official languages:

• English (9.6%)
• Afrikaans (13.5%)
• Ndebele (2.1%)
• Sepedi (9.1%)
• Xhosa (16%)
• Venda (2.4%)
• Tswana (8%)
• Southern Sotho (7.6%)
• Zulu (22.7%)
• Swazi or SiSwati (2.5%)
• Tsonga (4.5%)

In addition to its eleven official languages, many other languages from all over the world are frequently spoken in South Africa, some of which include:  Portuguese, Greek, Italian, French, Chinese etc.

Heritage Day is one of the most important National Holidays in South Africa. It is vital to both the nation as a whole and its people that it continues to be recognized, commemorated, and celebrated.

Despite the many differences that exist amongst the various South African cultures, South Africa’s strong sense of unity around longstanding traditions has always remained integral. When needed, our rainbow nation always comes together as a force to be reckoned with.

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First celebration of National Heritage Day

BBC News,'  Tutu praises 'unifying' barbecues  ',[online], 6 September 2007 , Available at www.news.bbc.co.uk [Accesssed : 13 September 2013]| info.gov,' South African Government Information. Public Holidays ',[online],Available at www.info.gov.za [Accessed: 13 September 2013]

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How Does Heritage Day Bring Unity and Close the Gaps of the Past in South Africa? Essay

How Does Heritage Day Bring Unity and Close the Gaps of the Past in South Africa? – Essay

The celebration of heritage brings unity by fostering a shared sense of identity and pride among people. It connects individuals to their roots and helps bridge the gap between diverse cultures by showcasing their unique histories, traditions, and values. Through these celebrations, people develop a collective understanding and appreciation of their common origins and the diverse paths that have shaped their community.

Here’s how the celebration of heritage contributes to unity:

• Cultural Awareness: Increases understanding and respect for different customs and practices, reducing prejudices and promoting acceptance.
• Preservation of Traditions: Encourages the preservation of cultural practices and languages, which might otherwise be lost, strengthening community bonds.
• Educational Opportunities: Provides educational experiences for younger generations, teaching them about their history and the importance of diversity.
• Community Engagement: Brings people together through events and festivals, which facilitates dialogue and builds relationships among community members.
• Economic Benefits: Often, heritage celebrations can boost local economies through tourism and local crafts, which creates shared economic prosperity and fosters a sense of common purpose.

By valuing and celebrating heritage, communities can enhance their cohesion and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all their members.

Table of Contents

In South Africa, Heritage Day , celebrated on the 24th of September , is a profound national holiday that recognises and celebrates the cultural wealth of the nation . It’s a day that reflects the country’s complex history, marked by apartheid, colonialism, and the struggle for freedom , and how its diverse cultures contribute to the nation’s identity. This essay delves into how Heritage Day in South Africa fosters unity and addresses historical divisions.

In a nutshell, Heritage Day brings unity and closes the gaps of the past in South Africa through:

• Celebrating Cultural Diversity : By showcasing the rich tapestry of cultures within the nation, Heritage Day encourages mutual respect and appreciation among different communities, fostering a sense of belonging and unity.
• Remembering Shared Histories : The day serves as a reminder of South Africa’s complex history, including the struggles against apartheid and colonialism, helping to build a shared national identity based on collective memories and experiences.
• Promoting Social Cohesion : Through various nationwide activities and events, such as communal braais (barbecues) and cultural exhibitions, Heritage Day provides opportunities for South Africans to come together, bridging social and cultural divides.
• Educational Impact : Heritage Day plays a crucial role in educating the younger generation about the country’s history and the importance of diversity, democracy, and unity, ensuring that the lessons of the past are remembered and valued.
• Acknowledging and Honoring the Struggle for Freedom : The day pays tribute to the heroes of the liberation struggle, acknowledging their sacrifices and inspiring a sense of pride and unity among all South Africans in the face of their common history of resistance and resilience.

Honouring Diverse Cultural Heritage to Foster Unity

Heritage Day in South Africa is a vibrant celebration of the rich tapestry of cultures that make up the nation’s identity. From the Zulu to the Xhosa, the Afrikaners to the Coloureds, and the Indian community, each group has its unique traditions and histories that are celebrated on this day.

• Promotion of Cultural Understanding : By showcasing the diverse cultural practices and histories of South Africa’s various ethnic groups, Heritage Day encourages understanding and appreciation among these communities. This mutual respect is fundamental to building a unified national identity.
• Breaking Down Historical Barriers : The day provides an opportunity for South Africans to reflect on their shared history of oppression and resistance. It acts as a bridge, connecting people through their collective memory of the struggle for freedom and equality, thereby helping to heal the divisions of the past.

Commemorating the Struggle for Freedom to Close Historical Gaps

Heritage Day is not just a celebration of cultural diversity but also a day to remember the long and arduous struggle against apartheid. This aspect of the holiday plays a critical role in closing the gaps left by South Africa’s troubled past.

• Recognition of Shared Struggles : The day pays homage to the heroes of the liberation struggle, acknowledging their sacrifices for freedom and democracy. This recognition helps to close the historical gaps by reminding all South Africans of their common fight against oppression.
• Educational Impact : Heritage Day serves as an educational tool that fosters a deeper understanding among the younger generation of South Africa’s history. Through events and narratives shared on this day, young people learn about the injustices of the past and the importance of unity and democracy, ensuring that the lessons of history are not forgotten.

Encouraging National Unity Through Celebration

The celebration of Heritage Day in South Africa is a powerful expression of national unity. Through its emphasis on diversity and shared history, the day plays a vital role in knitting the fabric of the South African nation more tightly together.

• Cultural Festivals and Events : Across the country, South Africans engage in a variety of activities, from braais (barbecues) which transcend cultural boundaries, to cultural exhibitions, dances, and music performances. These events serve as gatherings that bring people from different backgrounds together, promoting social cohesion and national unity.
• The Role of “Braai Day” : The informal nickname for Heritage Day, “ Braai Day ,” emphasizes the idea that sharing a meal is a universal way to connect people. This aspect of the celebration is a fun and inclusive way to encourage unity across cultural divides, symbolizing the nation’s diversity and the common ground found in celebrating together.

Heritage Day in South Africa plays a crucial role in promoting unity and bridging the historical gaps that have long divided the nation. By honouring the diverse cultural heritage of its people and commemorating the struggle for freedom, the day reinforces the values of mutual respect, understanding, and a shared national identity. In celebrating Heritage Day, South Africans reaffirm their commitment to overcoming the challenges of the past and building a united and prosperous nation for future generations.

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Heritage Day – September 24, 2024

Heritage Day on September 24 is a day that celebrates South Africa’s roots, their rich, vibrant, and diverse cultures. South Africa is called the ‘‘Rainbow Nation’’ due to its color and diversity, and this is why Heritage Day exists. Its goal is to nurture and embrace South African culture for what it truly is, accepting all races and genders. The day is usually celebrated with a cookout known as a braai and we suggest that you channel your inner South African and celebrate with a feast of your own.

History of Heritage Day

September 24 was previously known in South Africa as Shaka Day, a day commemorating the Zulu King of Shaka. He was known for uniting the Zulu clan together and forming the Zulu nation. Every year, South Africans would gather at his grave to honor him. In 1995 a request for the day to be confirmed as an official holiday was rejected. After receiving some pushback from the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), a majority Zulu party, it was decided that the day was needed and would be known as ‘‘Heritage Day.’’

Since then South Africans have celebrated Heritage Day by remembering the cultural heritage of the many different cultures that make up their nation. Events are held across the

country with some people choosing to dress up in traditional attire.

There was a media campaign in 2005 that sought to have the day recognized as National Braai Day, to acknowledge the backyard barbeque tradition, but the holiday is still officially recognized as Heritage Day.

Heritage Day timeline

Shaka the Zulu king dies provoking a remembrance day in his name, celebrating that he often encouraged a cohesive nation.

The Public Holidays Bill presented to the Parliament of South Africa does not have September 24 on their list of official public holidays.

Nelson Mandela addresses Heritage Day claiming that the day will allow the country's heritage to help build a new nation.

Ebrahim Rasool, a South African politician addresses the public at a Heritage Day gathering in Gugulethu.

After belittling it in 2007, the National Heritage Council endorses National Heritage Day

Heritage Day FAQ s

When is heritage day.

September 24

What is Heritage Month South Africa?

Heritage Month is celebrated every year in September. It was created by the government as a way to foster greater social cohesion and a shared national identity.

What was the theme of Heritage Month 2019?

The theme was ‘‘Indigenous Heritage Month’’ and it was centered on maintaining traditional practices while promoting a green economy.

Heritage Day Activities

Read up on south africa’s history.

Do some research on South Africa’s cultural past. Read up on their intense political history (Nelson Mandela’s life to start), racial injustices, languages, and culture in general. There is so much to learn! It will help you understand the day better and why it’s needed.

Host a Braai

Get the tongs out, heat the barbecue, and invite everyone. But if it’s more fun for you, attend a huge braai with people you may not know. The point is to embrace each other.

Share your day on social media

Use the hashtags #heritageday or #braaiiday to share what you got up to for the day and maybe also what you’ve learned. In 2019, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex shared their thoughts about the day on Instagram. ‘‘The area has seen inter-community tension rise over the last few years, yet days like today show how faith, traditions, food, and music bring people together and celebrate the things that unite each and every one of us.’’

5 Facts About Heritage Day

I am also known as….

This day is also known as National Braai Day.

Africa forever

Africans make up 79% of South Africa’s population.

Born in the 90s

1995 was the first year Heritage Day was celebrated.

The land of plenty

South Africa has 10 heritage sites declared by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation.

Different size Braais

Braai’s vary from Potjies, Shisha Nyama and Spit Braais.

Why we love Heritage Day

Pure shores.

The day aims to ease tension and we’re all for that. This day is all about unity and we’re loving that message.

It’s all about that Braai

A cookout or barbeque is always a winner in bringing people together. A bit of food, some drinks, and company. What more could you want?

The culture

South Africa’s culture is rich and should be celebrated! Be part of this and look more into their culture.

Heritage Day dates

Heritage day related holidays.

Nelson Mandela Day

United Nations Day

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112 Heritage Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Heritage is an important aspect of our identity and plays a significant role in shaping who we are as individuals. It encompasses our cultural, familial, and historical backgrounds, and often influences our beliefs, values, and traditions. Writing about heritage can be a powerful way to explore and celebrate the richness of our backgrounds, and to reflect on the ways in which our heritage has shaped us.

If you're looking for inspiration for an essay on heritage, here are 112 topic ideas and examples to get you started:

• How your family's heritage has influenced your identity
• Exploring the traditions and customs of your cultural heritage
• The importance of preserving and celebrating your heritage
• How your heritage has shaped your worldview and beliefs
• Investigating the history of your ancestral homeland
• The role of language in preserving cultural heritage
• The significance of traditional foods in your heritage
• Exploring the music and dance of your cultural heritage
• The impact of immigration on your family's heritage
• The ways in which storytelling has preserved your heritage
• Exploring the religious beliefs and practices of your heritage
• The influence of art and literature on your cultural heritage
• The role of education in passing down cultural heritage
• Understanding the impact of colonization on your heritage
• The importance of cultural festivals in preserving heritage
• Investigating the role of women in preserving cultural heritage
• Exploring the impact of globalization on your heritage
• The significance of traditional clothing in your heritage
• The role of oral history in preserving family heritage
• The impact of war and conflict on your heritage
• How your heritage has influenced your career choices
• Exploring the role of technology in preserving cultural heritage
• The ways in which your heritage has influenced your relationships
• Investigating the role of architecture in preserving cultural heritage
• The importance of genealogy in understanding your heritage
• Exploring the impact of climate change on cultural heritage
• The significance of traditional crafts in your heritage
• The role of music and dance in preserving cultural heritage
• Understanding the impact of migration on your heritage
• The ways in which your heritage has influenced your sense of community
• Exploring the role of food and drink in preserving cultural heritage
• The importance of traditional medicine in your heritage
• Investigating the impact of urbanization on cultural heritage
• The significance of storytelling in preserving family heritage
• Exploring the impact of colonization on your heritage
• The ways in which your heritage has influenced your

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Heritage Day reflections

We recently celebrated Heritage Day in our beloved South Africa. This led me to reflect on the heritage we have as a country with its diverse people and eleven official languages, which are Afrikaans, English, isiNdebele, Sepedi, Sesotho, siSwati, Xitsonga, Setswana), Tshivenda, isiXhosa and isiZulu. Language is part of our heritage and is linked to our identity. Sadly, for the Khoi and San people, South Africa’s first inhabitants do not have their languages recognised as official.

As a person of mixed race I struggled with my identity through childhood and my first few years at high school. This is a common challenge for many mixed race people in our country. During my high school years, I began to read the Bible more intensely and discovered my true identity in its pages – right from Genesis through to Revelation. In Genesis we discover Adam and Eve as the mother and father of all humankind. We also discover that we were made in God’s image. We learn in Ephesians 1:5 that “God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.” This discovery was life changing and brought about a freedom and acceptance of myself even though I do not know the full story of my biological heritage.

 “…and there was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, robed in white, with palm branches in their hands” Revelation 7:9. So, turn to the Bible with renewed curiosity to discover your true identity and family heritage for yourself.

Rainbow dream

Heritage Day also made me ask the question, “Is the dream of a true rainbow nation still possible?” Following the recent unrest and violence which took place in our country, particularly the murders in Phoenix, and with the narrative in the media of racism, and many conversations taking place referencing the 1949 riots, you begin to wonder if there is hope for our rainbow nation.

Last week I was privileged to be a part of a two-day Bridge Leadership Engagement with church leaders from the PINKU Region (Phoenix, Inanda, Ntuzuma, Kwa Mashu, Umhlanga/Durban North. I watched this group of ministers representing all the racial diversity in our country, connecting at a deeper level through the sharing of their stories. Watching them working together, identifying the problems in their communities and a commitment to finding solutions to build their communities and our beloved country. Part of our godly heritage is love and reconciliation which was exemplified in the life of Jesus Christ. Let us be practitioners of love and reconciliation because of Christ.

God put the first rainbow in the sky as a beacon of hope for Noah. This gives me a reason to hope that the dream of a rainbow nation is still alive!

Craig Bouchier

Craig is a Heartlines' regional representative who has worked in  in different ministry roles for many years. Read more about Craig and his journey from playing soccer for AmaZulu FC, to climbing the corporate ladder and taking up his calling into ministry.

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Heritage Day Essay South Africa – 500 Words

Celebrating Heritage Day in South Africa

Table of Contents

Introduction

Heritage Day in South Africa is a day of immense significance, celebrated annually on September 24th. It is a day that embodies the rich tapestry of this diverse nation, showcasing its cultural, historical, and social heritage. This essay delves into the importance of Heritage Day, its history, and how it unites the people of South Africa.

Historical Background

Heritage Day was first officially recognized in 1996, following the end of apartheid and the dawn of a new era of democracy in South Africa. It was originally known as Shaka Day, commemorating the legendary Zulu King Shaka Zulu. However, in 1996, President Nelson Mandela officially declared it as Heritage Day, emphasizing the need to celebrate the country’s diverse cultural heritage and foster unity among its citizens.

Celebrating Diversity

South Africa is often referred to as the “Rainbow Nation” due to its incredible diversity, with a multitude of ethnicities, languages, and cultures coexisting harmoniously. Heritage Day is an occasion that encourages South Africans to embrace and celebrate this diversity. People of all backgrounds come together to proudly display their traditions, customs, and cuisines.

Cultural Showcases

One of the most striking features of Heritage Day is the colorful cultural showcases that take place across the country. Communities organize events where they proudly exhibit their traditional attire, music, dance, and rituals. This offers an opportunity for people to learn about and appreciate the richness of various South African cultures, from the Zulu, Xhosa, and Sotho to the Afrikaner and Cape Malay cultures.

Culinary Delights

Food plays a significant role in celebrating heritage, and South Africa is no exception. On Heritage Day, many South Africans fire up their grills and participate in what is affectionately known as “National Braai Day.” A braai is a traditional South African barbecue, and it symbolizes the coming together of people from all walks of life over a shared meal. People savor a variety of meats, including boerewors (sausage) and sosaties (kebabs), along with an array of side dishes and desserts.

Promoting Unity

Heritage Day is more than just a celebration of culture; it is a powerful tool for promoting unity and social cohesion in South Africa. In a country with a complex history of racial divisions, this day encourages people to look beyond their differences and find common ground. It serves as a reminder of the shared values, experiences, and aspirations that bind South Africans together as a nation.

Preserving History

Heritage Day also provides an opportunity for South Africans to reflect on their history and the struggles that have shaped the nation. It is a time to remember the sacrifices made during the struggle against apartheid and to honor those who fought for freedom and equality.

Heritage Day in South Africa is a celebration of diversity, culture, and unity. It serves as a powerful reminder that despite its complex history, South Africa is a nation that can overcome its divisions and come together in the spirit of harmony and reconciliation. As South Africans proudly showcase their heritage, they contribute to the preservation of their cultural legacy and the building of a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Heritage Day stands as a testament to the resilience and unity of the Rainbow Nation.

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World Heritage Day 2024: Theme, history and significance

This year, as we mark world heritage day 2024, let’s delve into its theme, history, significance, and explore some of the top heritage sites in india..

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• World Heritage Day, also known as International Day for monuments and sites
• World Heritage Day is celebrated annually on April 18 to honor and preserve heritage and culture
• The theme for World Heritage Day 2024 is ‘Discover and Experience Diversity'

Every year on April 18th, we celebrate World Heritage Day, also known as the International Day for Monuments and Sites. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the incredible cultural and natural treasures recognised by UNESCO's World Heritage List. This special day is dedicated to honouring and safeguarding our cultural heritage. Ancient monuments and buildings are like precious gems that need proper care to endure the test of time.

Across the globe, there are countless remarkable sites and monuments, each showcasing the unique cultures of their respective countries. World Heritage Day serves as a reminder of the importance of these historical treasures and the need to protect them for future generations. It brings together individuals, organisations, societies, and governments to raise awareness about the significance of historical sites and promote their preservation.

World Heritage Day was first held in 1983 by UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. The date, April 18th, coincides with the establishment of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in 1982. This highlights the global effort to preserve our heritage for future generations.

WORLD HERITAGE DAY 2024 THEME

India's top 5 world heritage sites, celebrating world heritage day.

• Visit a heritage site near you and learn about its history.
• Participate in local events organised for the day.
• Share photos and information about your favourite heritage sites on social media.
• Support organisations dedicated to heritage preservation.

On this World Heritage Day, let us renew our commitment to preserving and promoting our cultural heritage, ensuring that these timeless treasures continue to inspire and enrich lives for generations to come. Published By: Smarica Pant Published On: Apr 18, 2024 Read | Mizoram Lok Sabha Election 2024: Total seats, schedule and other details

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World Heritage Day 2024: Date, history, significance and all that you need to know

World heritage day 2024: from history to significance, here's all that you need to know about the special day..

World Heritage Day 2024: Our cultural heritage is a significant part of our identity as a nation and a culture. It also bears a lot of historical importance and helps us to connect with our rich traditions and history . However, heritage buildings and monuments need preservation and protection. It is important to create awareness about their significance and urge people to come together in safeguarding the heritage properties of the world. We connect with our history through the heritage we have. World Heritage Day is also referred to as International Day for Monuments and Sites.

As we gear up to celebrate the special day, here are a few things that we need to know.

Every year, World Heritage Day is observed on April 18. This year, the special day falls on Thursday.

In 1982, The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) proposed the idea of observing World Heritage Day on April 18 every year. The following year, the proposal was approved at UNESCO's General Conference. Since then, the special day is observed every year on April 18. Heritage monuments and sites are often victim to human activities, natural disasters and urbanisation. The day reinstates the importance of protecting and preserving them.

Significance:

The theme for this year's World Heritage Day is - Discover and experience diversity. Natural landscapes, historical monuments, cultural practices, traditions, rituals and ancient ruins are part of the world's heritage. It is important to safeguard them. They are known for their cultural value and are also recognised by UNESCO for their universal significance. These heritage sites are also tourist attractions that can help in boosting the local economy. They help us to take a peek into our rich history and the past that we were unaware of before. They need to be protected and safeguarded for future generations.

Tapatrisha is Content Producer with Hindustan Times. She covers stories related to health, relationships, and fashion. ...view detail

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Earth Day: What is it, when is it and why is it important?

Earth Day takes place on 22 April each year. Image:  UNSPLASH/Markus Spiske

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Hanh nguyen.

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Stay up to date:, climate crisis.

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This article was last updated on 11 April 2024. It was originally published on 19 April 2022.

• Earth Day takes place every year on 22 April and is one of the biggest environmental protest movements on the planet.
• The theme of Earth Day this year is 'Planet vs. Plastics' - campaigners are calling for a 60% reduction in the production of plastics by 2040.
• The World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report 2024 finds that environmental risks make up half of the top 10 risks over the next 10 years.

“Good evening, a unique day in American history is ending. A day set aside for a nationwide outpouring of mankind seeking its own survival.”

Those were the words of US TV presenter Walter Cronkite as he described the aftermath of the first Earth Day back in 1970.

Here’s what you need to know about Earth Day in 2024.

What is Earth Day and what is the theme in 2024?

Earth Day is an international day devoted to our planet. It draws attention to the environment and promotes conservation and sustainability. Each year on 22 April, around 1 billion people around the world take action to raise awareness of the climate crisis and bring about behavioural change to protect the environment.

Participation in Earth Day can take many forms, including small home or classroom projects like planting a herb garden or picking up litter. People also volunteer to plant trees, join other ecological initiatives or take part in street protests about climate change and environmental degradation.

Official Earth Day campaigns and projects aim to increase environmental literacy and bring together like-minded people or groups to address issues such as deforestation, biodiversity loss and other challenges .

The global theme for this year's Earth Day is ' Planet vs. Plastics ', which recognizes the threat plastics pose to human health and with campaigners demanding a 60% reduction in the production of plastics by 2040.

From 23 to 29 April 2024, governments and NGOs from around the world will gather in Ottawa to continue negotiating the terms of the United Nations Global Plastic Treaty .

How did Earth Day begin?

Millions of people took to the streets of US cities and towns on 22 April 1970 in mass protests over the damage being done to the planet and its resources. Amid the demonstrations, protesters brought New York City’s usually bustling Fifth Avenue to a halt, while students in Boston held a “die-in” at Logan Airport. The environmental impact of the post-war consumer boom was beginning to be felt at that time. Oil spills, factory pollution and other ecological threats were on the rise, with little if any legislation in place to prevent them.

The protests brought together people from all walks of American life – accounting for about 10% of the US population – to demonstrate and voice their demands for sustainable change. The Earth Day website calls it the birth of the modern environmental movement.

What led to the street protests in 1970?

Concerned about increasing levels of unchecked environmental destruction, Junior Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin suggested a series of “teach-ins” on university campuses across the US in 1969 to raise awareness of environmental threats. Nelson was joined by Congressman Pete McCloskey and activist Denis Hayes to organize the teach-ins, but the group soon recognized an opportunity to broaden the event’s appeal beyond student populations.

The newly named Earth Day protest events attracted national media attention and support from around 20 million Americans across age and political spectrums, occupations and income groups.

What did the protests achieve?

The Earth Day demonstrations left an indelible mark on US policy. By the end of 1970, the US Environmental Protection Agency came into being and a stream of laws followed to help protect the environment . These included the National Environmental Education Act, the Occupational Safety and Health Act and the Clean Air Act. Further legislation was soon introduced to protect water quality and endangered species, and to control the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides.

When did Earth Day go global?

Earth Day went beyond the US in 1990. Around 200 million people from 141 countries joined efforts to boost recycling around the world that year, paving the way for the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Climate change poses an urgent threat demanding decisive action. Communities around the world are already experiencing increased climate impacts, from droughts to floods to rising seas. The World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report continues to rank these environmental threats at the top of the list.

To limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C and as close as possible to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, it is essential that businesses, policy-makers, and civil society advance comprehensive near- and long-term climate actions in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement on climate change.

The World Economic Forum's Climate Initiative supports the scaling and acceleration of global climate action through public and private-sector collaboration. The Initiative works across several workstreams to develop and implement inclusive and ambitious solutions.

This includes the Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders, a global network of business leaders from various industries developing cost-effective solutions to transitioning to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy. CEOs use their position and influence with policy-makers and corporate partners to accelerate the transition and realize the economic benefits of delivering a safer climate.

Contact us to get involved.

This “Earth Summit”, as it became known, led to the formation of the UN Convention on Climate Change and the UN Convention on Biological Diversity , along with the Commission on Sustainable Development to monitor and report on the implementation of Earth Summit agreements.

And as citizens were increasingly concerned with corporate impacts on the natural environment, big and small businesses started to feel the pressure to consider sustainability in their practice.

Have you read?

Is climate inaction a human rights violation, how earth observation from space helps advance climate change research, why is earth day important today.

As the millennium loomed, the Earth Day movement turned its attention to the growing reality of the impending climate crisis with a clear message for world leaders and business: urgent action is needed to address global warming.

It’s a message that is even more relevant today. The latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change states that without further immediate action to curb greenhouse gas emissions, the world is on course for temperatures 3.2°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100. This level of warming would be catastrophic for the planet and all life on it, including humans.

The year 2023 was the hottest ever recorded .

The World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report 2024 finds that environmental risks make up half of the top 10 risks over the next 10 years, with extreme weather events, critical change to Earth's systems, biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse being the top three.

Nature is our biggest ally in fighting the climate crisis and has slowed global warming by absorbing 54% of human-related carbon dioxide emissions over the past 10 years. Yet, we are losing animals, marine species, plants, and insects at an unprecedented rate, not seen in 10 million years . Threats from human activity for food production and ocean use, infrastructure, energy and mining endanger around 80% of all threatened or near-threatened species .

Earth Day has become a leading light in the fight to combat climate change and nature loss. As we celebrate its 54th anniversary, we must make use of this truly global movement to act, as citizens and governments, as consumers and businesses, and as individuals and communities. Our survival could well depend on it.

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World Economic Forum articles may be republished in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International Public License, and in accordance with our Terms of Use.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not the World Economic Forum.

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Administrator Samantha Power at a USAID Arab American Heritage Month Event

ADMINISTRATOR SAMANTHA POWER:  Thank you so much, Charles [Kiamie], for that introduction, for your years of leadership at both USAID, and within the Arab Americans in Foreign Affairs Agencies, ERG or employee resource group. I've benefited a lot from our engagements and just grateful for the candor and the wisdom that you've offered me personally. 

Thank you to Matthew [Jaber Stiffler] and the Arab American National Museum for everything you do to shine a light on Arab American activists who have helped write the American story. So many Arab Americans, including many here with us today, have dedicated their lives and careers to fighting for dignity and opportunity for every human being. And it goes without saying, I suspect to this group, but your contributions are as varied as they are numerous. 

You are helping partner governments in Southeast Asia, for example, shore up their data and surveillance systems to track the outbreaks of tuberculosis fighting for a world where no individual needs to die from a disease that is both treatable and preventable. And fighting for a world where living healthy lives is not a privilege but a right. You are leading our inclusive development work, creating new ways for this agency to partner with smaller local organizations, particularly those serving historically marginalized communities so that communities have the resources they need to fully implement their own solutions to the challenges they face. You are leading efforts to expand the coalition's of those investing in human dignity, spearheading partnerships with private sector companies that can help our own impact exceed what our USAID resources alone can achieve. You're pioneers in the progress beyond program efforts and with the hustle mindset that we all need, given resource constraints and growing challenges. And of course, you have moved the needle as well in important ways for our Americans. 

It was after all, Arab Americans across USAID, the State Department and the broader interagency including our own former colleague, Rita Stephan, who joined civic actors nationwide, encouraging the Office of Management and Budget to add the first ever Middle Eastern or North African category to federal data collection efforts. This category is now scheduled to go into effect for upcoming 2030 federal census efforts – and that's for federal workers – and this is the first revision to the process since 1997. It's a critical step to be able to better understand and meet the needs of Arab American public servants. 

Many of your deep ties to the Arab world have also helped us better serve communities in crisis overseas, helping USAID engage the diaspora communities to address urgent priorities in Iraq, Yemen, and Lebanon, and playing a crucial role coordinating with our donor partners to respond to the devastation in Gaza. I know that this work, which is already challenging in its own right, and is already demanding so much of your time and energy, is not easy. And I would say it's especially difficult today. 

It is not easy to feel motivated when you are overlooked or undermined because of your heritage or your religion or the color of your skin. It's not easy to show up to work every day when rising levels of harassment, threats, and violence against Arab American communities threaten the safety of you and your loved ones. It is not easy to feel like you matter when leaders are spewing inflammatory rhetoric that can dehumanize, devalue, or simply ignore people who share your identity. And Charles alluded to this, above all, it is not easy to feel like you are making a difference in the world when more than 30,000 Palestinians and more than 200 international and Palestinian aid workers have been killed in Gaza. 

I realize that as long as violence in Gaza continues, those of you with family and friends there or connected to those who are there are going to live in perpetual fear for vulnerable people in harm's way. And I recognize how many of you are mourning, already, lives that have been taken. But I want you to know that we will continue to call on Israel to do much, much more to protect civilians. IDF military operations have killed far too many civilians. I and other senior leaders throughout the government will continue to advocate for a lasting ceasefire and a sustainable and equitable peace. And all of us, at USAID, are going to use every tool we have – public and private – to use diplomacy to press to see more border crossings open, to have them open longer, to allow hundreds more trucks a day into Gaza. And really make sure that the Israeli government is making more commitments and following through on the commitments made to President Biden in recent weeks to make major transformative improvements to humanitarian access. 

Last week, I had the chance to testify to the Congress about the severity of the catastrophe unfolding in Gaza and had a chance to appeal for more than a billion dollars in new aid to address the desperate humanitarian needs. Right now, access and protection of civilians and aid workers are the gating issues – they are the limiting factors. But we need those resources as well. Because if we secure the kinds of changes that are needed, at some point, we are going to run out of money. And so just I know all of you are watching as we are pressing to see the national security supplemental go through on the hill. I just want you to know that no matter your role within the agency and no matter how it feels right now you are making a difference. You've made a difference in shaping my thinking and my advocacy within this administration. That in turn has made a difference with President Biden, and I know for many of you not a difference enough but nonetheless, you're all still at this. And you're making a difference for countless people in communities around the world. The agency needs you – needs your talent, your expertise, your dedication, as the challenges that we are facing continue to grow. 

I am fiercely committed as Administrator to helping you do the critical work that you came here to do. And in that spirit, my entire leadership team and I will continue to emphasize that rhetoric that targets and dehumanizes Palestinian and Arab communities at home and abroad is unacceptable. As I've said, I deeply appreciate the candid lines of communication. We have been able to build with AAIFAA [Arab Americans in Foreign Affairs Agencies Employee Resource Group], and I welcome any feedback however critical I may have on what we are saying, what we're doing, and, and any of the efforts that we are making. 

I want to thank you for continuing to show up every day, despite all of what I've been describing, and much more that you're going through instead of disengaging from what I can tell, you're leaning in, you're speaking out, you are demanding that we do better. And in doing so, again, you are in fact making a difference. So as we commemorate the Arab American activists that have helped make this country more just, more equal, and kinder, I want to recognize all of you as well. And I hope you will continue to dedicate your considerable talent and expertise to USAID’s work – we are so much stronger with you on our team. 

Thank you so much, and I'm gonna stay for as long as I can, I'm very interested in hearing the next discussion. But I definitely wanted to thank you all for everything you do. 

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Caitlin Clark and the Best-Dressed at the W.N.B.A. Draft

The next class of basketball stars are ready for their close-ups. Finally, fashion is paying attention.

By Vanessa Friedman

When it comes to peacocks, it’s hard to beat male athletes. Their tunnel walks have been painstakingly documented; their fits have dominated the draft day conversations for the N.B.A . and the N.F.L .; their love of Vuitton and Hermès has been parlayed into brands of their own.

But on Monday evening at the W.N.B.A. draft, following the most-watched women’s college basketball game in history and the most-watched basketball game at any level since 2019, that all changed. Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Cameron Brink, among others, saw that style marker and raised it one.

Well, they are elite competitors — in image-making as on the court. Fashion, it seems, has finally figured that out. Stylists and brands are waking up and reaching out.

“People are seeing us for who we are now,” said Rickea Jackson, the No. 4 pick of the night, who is going to the Los Angeles Sparks.

It started with Ms. Clark, the No. 1 pick, who is going to the Indiana Fever and continued her record-breaking streak by becoming the first basketball player, man or woman, to be fully decked out by Prada for the draft.

She wore a white satin miniskirt and oversize shirt with rhinestone buttons and a cropped rhinestone top, tinted aviators and black sling-backs, and she carried a small patent leather Prada bag. The net effect was very “future of my sport.” Prada had approached her, she said, or at least her styling team, which is a coronation of a different sort.

She wasn’t the only one to go haute. Ms. Reese, the seventh pick, going to the Chicago Sky, worked with Naomi Elizée, the Vogue fashion editor who had styled her for her draft declaration in that magazine, and looked as if she had taken a side road on her way to the Met Gala. See her backless Bronx and Banco silver knit dress with a plunging V-neck and hood and coordinating Christian Louboutin pumps, which she duly name-checked in her strut down the orange carpet.

“I wanted something that was going to pop,” Ms. Reese said of her dress. And she wanted to seize the moment. “I don’t want to just be a great basketball player,” she said. “I want to leave my impact. I want to be a model. I can cook. I can do hair. I can do nails. I can do it all.”

That is, in the end, why all of this matters. Fashion is the fastest route to personal branding, which leads to influence, which leads to an even bigger stage. Not to mention endorsements, no small consideration given the continuing salary disparities between men and women in professional basketball. (Ms. Clark’s base salary will be $76,535.)

So there was Ms. Brink, chosen second and going to the Los Angeles Sparks, in a black and white asymmetric Balmain gown with a slit to the upper thigh and a rose on one shoulder. She found the dress with the help of the stylist for the actress and Sweet July founder Ayesha Curry (her husband, Steph Curry, being Ms. Brink’s godbrother).

And there was Alissa Pili, of Samaoan and Indigenous Alaskan descent, who was chosen by the Minnesota Lynx, and who worked with the designer Jason Vu to make a dress that, she said, paid honor to her heritage and the people who got her to the draft. Hence the gold Polynesian print on the skirt and a silhouette cut to showcase the tribal tattoos on her leg and shoulder and, she said, “to represent them on the biggest stage.”

There was a lot of white, not just on Ms. Clark but also on Aaliyah Edwards (No. 6, Washington Mystics), who carried a crystal handbag shaped like a basketball, because, she said, “I always have a ball in my hand,” and Celeste Taylor (No. 15, Indiana Fever).

Also red, on Kamilla Cardoso, the No. 3 pick, going to the Chicago Sky, who wore a sharply tailored suit, and Ms. Jackson, who, taking a page from the Oscar red carpet, swapped the crimson bustier and trousers she had worn on the orange carpet with some Cartier crystal sunglasses for a sparkling silver suit when she took the draft stage.

The looks “gave two different vibes, so I said, ‘Why not?’” Ms. Jackson said. She found them with the help of Tasha Hartzog, a stylist who had messaged her on Instagram. “The first was Detroit fierce, and I am from Detroit, and the second was more glitz and glam,” Ms. Jackson said. “I know that where I’m going I am going to want to style it. And I want to be big.”

The point, she continued, is “the bigger you get, the more people that brings, the more eyes, the more money.”

“We are people outside of basketball,” she said. “You have your own brand.” Even if she and her draft mates are only at the beginning of their careers.

“One day, the ball is going to stop bouncing,” she said. “So you want to have things in place for what’s next.”

An earlier version of this article misidentified the designer of Alissa Pili’s dress. It is Jason Vu, not Jason Wu.

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Vanessa Friedman has been the fashion director and chief fashion critic for The Times since 2014. More about Vanessa Friedman

Earth Day 2024: Planet Vs. Plastic

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Born in 1970, Earth Day has evolved into one of the largest civic events of all time. When we observe the 54 th Earth Day on April 22, the health and safety of the planet couldn’t be timelier, especially when it comes to dealing with the proliferation of plastic.

Over the past 60 years, around eight billion tons of plastic has been produced, according to a recent study in the journal Science Advances — 90.5 per cent of which has not been recycled . As a result, this year’s Earth Day theme— “Planet vs. Plastic”— demands a 60% reduction in the production of all plastics by 2040.

Just how big of a challenge is this? What type of numbers are we talking about? Here’s some perspective:

• In 1950, the world produced just two million tons of plastic. We now produce over 450 million tons .
• Half of all plastics ever manufactured have been made in the last 15 years.
• P roduction is expected to double by 2050.
• More than one million plastic water bottles are sold every minute.
• Every year, about 11 million tons of plastic waste escapes into the ocean.
• Only 9% of plastics ever produced has been recycled.
• Plastics often contain additives that can extend the life of products, with some estimates ranging to at least 400 years to break down.

Plastic is literally everywhere

An advertisement from the American Plastics Council in a 1997 edition of the New Yorker suggested that plastic wrappers and containers were the “sixth food group” that were there to keep contaminates out of our food.

Close up shot of microplastics on a hand.

In a twisted type of irony, Microplastics are now in almost everything and everywhere. Even in in much of the food we eat and water we drink! Microplastics are tiny particles of plastic (from ½ inch to microscopic) is synthetic that never disappears. As Stephen Jamieson recently explained in a Future of Supply Chain podcast, “We're ingesting a credit card size worth of plastic every single week as humans, and the real health impacts of that, we don't truly know and don't truly understand.”

What is the world doing about it?

In the Podcast, Stephen discussed the upcoming fourth session of the United Nations Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee he is attending in Ottawa, Canada from 23rd to the 29th of April. The goal is to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment, that will, as Stephen stated, “by early next year, actually ratify a new treaty at the United Nations to eliminate plastic pollution by 2040”.

What can businesses do about it?

Think about optimizing your entire supply chain for sustainability, rather than just individual functions.

For example, you may be pulling certain levers in your design processes, or manufacturing plants, only to realize that the sustainability gains in that process are offset by much a much larger negative impact on logistics or at the end of life of a product.

Perform Life Cycle Assessments on your products

A Life Cycle Assessment is a method for the compilation and evaluation of the inputs, outputs and the potential environmental impacts of a product throughout its life cycle (ISO standard 14040).

In simple terms, it’s a way by which you can understand the sustainability footprint of a product throughout it’s full lifecycle, from “cradle to grave.”

By enabling product footprints periodically across the entire product lifecycle, you can gain insights on the environmental impacts of your products across the entire lifecycle for disclosure and internal product and process optimization.

Design with end of life in mind

As Earthday.org says, “We need to invest in innovative technologies and materials to build a plastic-free world”.

And this starts with how we design products and packaging material in the goods we manufacture and deliver. The sooner we phase out all single use plastics, the better. We need responsible design and production solutions that facilitate a product and package redesign that enables companies to engage in the circular economy and reduces waste without sacrificing quality.

Enforce compliance at each step of the product lifecycle

If you look at most companies’ website for their mission statement or purpose, sustainability is front and center. And supply chain sits right in the middle, both as a major contributor to the problem, and a major opportunity to improve.

But you can’t manage regulatory and sustainability requirements, track registrations and substance volumes, classify products, and create compliance documents, as well as package, transport, and store hazardous materials properly with accurate labeling you won’t be able to measure how you are performing.

This takes a stepwise approach to:

Record: The first step is to gather all necessary ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) data along the entire value chain. This data cannot be found easily in one single system. Currently this is a highly manual and therefore time consuming effort compounded by data quality challenges.

Report: There are more than 600 ESG frameworks/standards out there and they are being constantly developed further (Take the evolving plastics taxes across Europe for example). The requirements for companies are constantly changing. A high effort is required to keep up with the current requirements to report along the respective regulatory & voluntary frameworks.

Act: In many companies sustainability action is already happening but in many cases this this is still partly disjoint from the strategy or not yet covering all business processes

What can we as individuals do about it?

The reality is that everybody has a role to play in the “Planet vs. Plastics battle, and the sustainability of the planet in general.

Little things like using reusable bottles and straws and bringing reusable bags to the store are great first step.

You can also go to earthday.org to learn more about the battle between planet vs. plastics, and find an event near you where you can help clean up the planet.

Let’s make every day Earth Day, to protect this beautiful rock we live on for future generations.

To learn more, listen to The Future of Supply Chain Podcast – Earth vs. Planet .

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