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It's time to stand up for freedom of speech and celebrate International Blasphemy Rights Day on Sept. 30! This important holiday was established in 2009 to raise awareness of the global struggle against blasphemy laws, which restrict people's right to express their opinions freely. This day gives us an opportunity to reflect on the importance of free expression and open dialogue, no matter how controversial or unpopular someone's ideas may be. So join us in celebrating International Blasphemy Rights Day and show your support for freedom of speech!
<div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2005</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Background Incident</div><div class='timeline-text'>The publication of cartoons depicting Islamic prophet Mohammad in Danish newspaper led to worldwide protests and sparked discussions about blasphemy and freedom of speech.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2009</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Establishment of IBRD</div><div class='timeline-text'>The Center for Inquiry (CFI) establishes International Blasphemy Rights Day to raise awareness about individuals globally who challenge oppressive laws and social prohibitions against free expression and criticize beliefs they disagree with.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2011</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>UN Resolution Passed</div><div class='timeline-text'>United Nations Human Rights Council passes resolution 16/18 against religious hate speech, but it does not denounce blasphemy laws directly.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2013</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>CFI Drive against Blasphemy Laws</div><div class='timeline-text'>The CFI launches a campaign openly challenging blasphemy laws, aiming to decriminalize blasphemy worldwide.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2015</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Charlie Hebdo Solidarity</div><div class='timeline-text'>The tragic Charlie Hebdo shootings leads to international demonstrations of solidarity, reaffirming the importance of freedom of speech, even when it may be considered blasphemous.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2019</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>New Zealand Repeals Blasphemy Law</div><div class='timeline-text'>New Zealand repeals its blasphemy law, joining other countries in the ongoing global movement against such laws.</div></div></div>
<div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>1</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Join a protest</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Organize or join an event that speaks out against blasphemy laws and encourages freedom of expression. Make sure to be aware of any local laws or regulations that may limit your ability to do so.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>2</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Educate yourself</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Read up on the history of blasphemy laws and the effects they have had around the world. Learn about the current situation in countries that have blasphemy laws in effect, and how people are fighting for their rights.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>3</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Spread awareness</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Share articles, stories, and other resources with your friends and family to help spread awareness of the issues surrounding blasphemy laws. Talk to people and encourage them to learn more about these issues.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>4</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Write a letter</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Write a letter to your local government officials and representatives expressing your support for freedom of speech and expression. If you know someone who is affected by a blasphemy law, consider writing a letter on their behalf as well.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>5</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Support organizations</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Research and donate to organizations that are actively working to protect freedom of expression and fight against blasphemy laws around the world. Your support can make a difference.</p></div></div>
<div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>A</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It promotes freedom of expression and tolerance</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>International Blasphemy Rights Day highlights the importance of freedom of expression and tolerance of all beliefs. It reminds us that no matter what we believe in, everyone should be free to express their ideas without fear of oppression or censorship.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>B</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It allows people to explore different faiths</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>By celebrating International Blasphemy Rights Day, we remind ourselves that all faiths should be respected, even - and especially - those which differ from our own. This is essential for developing a healthy understanding of other cultures, beliefs and experiences.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>C</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It encourages critical thinking</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>A world where people feel safe enough to question the beliefs of others is one where we can engage in meaningful dialogue and come to a better understanding and respect for each other. By promoting blasphemy rights, we foster an environment where critical thinking is encouraged and embraced rather than suppressed or punished.</p></div></div>
<div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>1</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>International Blasphemy Rights Day Encourages Dissent </h3><p class='facts-content'>Contrary to suppressing or straitjacketing free thought, this day underscores the importance of dissent in a democratic society. It places great value on personal expression and voices that may be considered unconventional.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>2</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>IBRD is led by Center for Inquiry</h3><p class='facts-content'>Center for Inquiry, an organization that advocates for secular humanism, established International Blasphemy Rights Day. This stands testament to their commitment to upholding freedom of expression across the globe.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>3</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>IBRD Sheds Light on Discrepancies in Law and Perception</h3><p class='facts-content'>Though some might think blasphemy pertains only to the offense of religious sensibilities, this day emphasizes how certain laws and cultural prohibitions stifle free expression, effectively creating a climate of fear.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>4</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>IBRD Stands Against all Forms of Hate Speech</h3><p class='facts-content'>International Blasphemy Rights Day doesn't support hate speech. Its goal is to foster an environment that respects and supports diverse opinions, thus promoting international peace and understanding. This distinction can often be misunderstood.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>5</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>IBRD is Becoming Increasingly Recognizable Globally</h3><p class='facts-content'>Even though the day is not recognized by official authorities in many countries, International Blasphemy Rights Day is becoming more known globally. Thanks to digital media and international organizations' efforts, awareness about the day and its purpose is growing.</p></div></div>
International Blasphemy Rights Day is celebrated on September 30 every year. In 2024, it will be celebrated on a Monday.
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Sep 30
Saturday
2024
Sep 30
Monday
2025
Sep 30
Tuesday
2026
Sep 30
Wednesday
2027
Sep 30
Thursday
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