International Day of Families was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993. Since 1994 every May 15th, the world comes together to celebrate International Family Day, recognizing the pivotal role that families play in shaping our society. At the core of this celebration lies the profound significance of family in nurturing the development and ensuring the well-being of children worldwide.
Families serve as the cornerstone of a child’s upbringing, providing them with a safe haven for growth, learning, and emotional support. It is within the family unit that children first learn essential life skills, values, and beliefs that will guide them throughout their lives. As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child”; and indeed, the family represents the primary village where a child’s journey begins.
Both scripture and science affirm the importance of a family for the development and the wellbeing of a child. Yet there are millions of children in the world separated from the families due to many reasons and living in institutional settings.
Beyond mere biological ties, the concept of family extends to encompass diverse forms of kinship, including adoptive families, single-parent households, and extended families. What unites them all is the unwavering commitment to providing children with a nurturing environment conducive to their growth and well-being.
On International Family Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to supporting and strengthening families worldwide. By investing in family-friendly policies, access to quality education, healthcare, and social services, we can empower families to fulfil their vital role as the primary agents of child development and well-being. Together, let us celebrate the beauty, resilience, and boundless love that families embody, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
