Opium Suppression Movement Day is observed on June 3 every year. This Taiwanese holiday is dedicated to ending cigarette smoking. The opium suppression movement in China inspired this initiative. By spreading awareness about the dangers of smoking and tobacco consumption, the day hopes to get smokers to quit and prevent others from taking up smoking. 46% of Taiwanese men and 6% of women are smokers, and of the country’s 23 million people, around five million consume tobacco products. Cigarette smoking causes cancer, lung disease, and heart disease. In light of these statistics, the importance of this date becomes clear — quit smoking today!
National First Ladies Day
National First Ladies Day is on June 2 every year. This day recognizes and applauds the unique role America’s leading women played in serving the nation. From actresses and artists to scholars and activists, women have occupied this role, each shaping it uniquely. The role of the First Lady is both flexible and constraining, granting the opportunity to make a change and a high degree of public scrutiny that is often rather critical. It’s a difficult job with no rule book or formal procedure, but with great cultural and political significance.
Gawai Dayak
Gawai Dayak is celebrated on June 1 and 2 every year. It is a special annual festival of the Dayak people in Sarawak, Malaysia, and West Kalimantan, Indonesia. If you’re wondering what the name ‘Gawai Dayak’ means, don’t grind your brain too hard! ‘Gawai’ means ‘festival’ and ‘Dayak’ is a collective name for the indigenous people of Sarawak, Indonesian Kalimantan, and the interior of Borneo. It is one of the most exciting and keenly-awaited festivals in these regions. So, how do they celebrate Gawai Dayak, and what is the cultural and religious importance of the festival? Here’s everything you need to know about Gawai Dayak.