Be Kind To Humankind Week is an annual worldwide celebration of kindness that is observed from August 25 to August 31. This week is a time for us to reflect on what we can do to make this world a better place. The celebrations were started with the simple motive that we must do all that we can to make the lives of those around us happier. You don’t have to do anything elaborate to be kind — all it takes is a kind word or helping a friend with their household chores to observe this week. Set aside a few hours every day to do something nice for others.
History of Be Kind To Humankind Week
Be Kind To Humankind Week was created in August of 1988 by Lorraine Jara who is based in Toms River, New Jersey. Jara says that she was inspired to create Be Kind To Humankind Week (also known as BK2HK) by the tragic incident of two men from her hometown who were involved in a boating accident. The two men kept fighting for their lives while other boaters passed them by. No one offered to help because they didn’t want to get involved, and one of the men eventually died. Jara decided to honor the memory of the deceased young man by creating Be Kind To Humanity Week that would encourage people to be kind to others. Many have recognized her for her efforts, including Hollywood personalities like Oprah Winfrey and Paul Simon, along with several American Presidents.
Be Kind to Humankind Week is an annual celebration of kindness that is recognized globally every year. According to Jara, it is basically “a week of reflection and kind thoughts of others to make this world a better place. Of course, we suggest practicing kindness daily, but this is the week you can take.” The entire week aims to specifically guide people on how to be kinder human beings to others on that day. Even though we are expected to show and perform acts of kindness throughout the week, Jara hopes that we continue to be kind to each other no matter what and practice kindness throughout the year. This is also the perfect celebration to instill kindness and empathy among young children.
Be Kind To Humankind Week timeline
Tubman rescues at least 300 people from slavery.
Unofficial ceasefires are declared along the Western Front of WWII around Christmas.
The Nobel Peace Prize recognizes her efforts in alleviating poverty in Calcutta.
Princess Diana visits a hospital in London and shakes hands with a patient suffering from AIDS, challenging the false belief that the disease is transmitted by touch.
Be Kind To Humankind Week FAQs
What is the true meaning of kindness?
Kindness is us being friendly, generous, and considerate. Affection, gentleness, warmth, concern, and care are some of the emotions that are associated with kindness.
What does kindness do to a person?
Kindness has been shown to increase self-esteem, empathy, and compassion, and improve mood. It can control blood pressure and stress levels. Kind people tend to be healthier and live longer.
What is Biblical kindness?
Biblical kindness inspires us to be selfless, compassionate, and merciful. It is best identified by the phrase, “Love your neighbor.”
How to Observe Be Kind To Humankind Week
Lend a hand
Know someone who’s struggling to get their chores done? Get involved and lend a hand to anyone who might need your help. Something as simple as fetching groceries for someone can be a huge help to them.
Forgive an enemy
It is difficult to forgive those who have wronged or hurt us. This week, try to forgive someone who wronged you. This helps you to get closure and move forward with your life.
Be considerate while driving
Your morning commute can set the tone for the rest of the day. Consider practicing an extra amount of patience with those who share the road with you.
5 Facts About Kindness That Will Blow Your Mind
Kindness may be contagious
Researchers say that kindness might in fact be “contagious” — we are more likely to perform kind acts when we see others being kind.
Kindness makes you healthier
Being kind can increase your lifespan.
Kindness promotes peer acceptance
Performing random acts of kindness can improve well-being and peer acceptance.
Being kind makes you happy
Research shows that being kind gives you an optimistic outlook on life.
Kindness fights loneliness
Being kind can keep loneliness and helplessness at bay.
Why Be Kind To Humankind Week is Important
It makes us kinder
Be Kind To Humankind Week inspires us to be kinder and better human beings. This is the perfect celebration to practice kindness and celebrate the trait that makes us humane.
It's an opportunity to put others first
It’s natural for us to put ourselves and personal interests first, but this is a great time to think of others and be considerate of someone else’s needs. This teaches us empathy.
It inspires us to support a cause
This week you can pick a cause of your choice and choose to donate or volunteer for it. Supporting a good cause not only makes the world a better place but also helps you keep a positive approach to life.
Be Kind To Humankind Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | August 25 | Sunday |
| 2025 | August 25 | Monday |
| 2026 | August 25 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | August 25 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | August 25 | Friday |
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