Women’s and Family Day is on August 13 in Tunisia. On this day, the promulgation of Tunisian women’s rights through its adoption of the Code of Personal Status is honored. From grandmothers, mothers, and daughters, today is every woman’s day. The day reminds everyone how far women have come fighting for gender — in social roles, careers, and opportunities. It’s also the best opportunity to pass this tradition on to the younger generations who will hone Tunisia’s future.
Obon Festival
Obon Festival is an annual Japanese ritual observed from the 13th to the 15th of the seventh lunar month. This year, the holiday will be celebrated from August 13 to 15. It can also be held from July 13 to 15, depending on the calendar used. Obon is similar to Mexico’s Day of the Dead and China’s Hungry Ghost Festival. During the three-day festivities, the Japanese welcome the spirits of their dead ancestors and rekindle their connections. Although it’s a festival cherishing death, Obon is more fun than creepy. People engage in fun activities, folk dance, and music events. They visit and clean the graves of the ancestors, light ‘chochin’ lanterns, and eat traditional dishes.
Jamaica Independence Day
Jamaica Independence Day is celebrated on August 6 annually. This day became a national celebration in 1962 when Jamaica became independent with full dominion status in the Commonwealth, under a constitution that retained the British monarch as head of state. The first elected Prime Minister was Alexander Bustamante.
Jamaica’s independence meant that Britain no longer controlled the country’s affairs. Thus, these became primarily managed by the new Prime Minister and his locally elected cabinet. Furthermore, Jamaica’s independence also meant that they had to form a constitution, symbols, emblems, army, currency, and passports.