International Blasphemy Rights Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about International Blasphemy Rights Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. International Blasphemy Rights Day is observed on September 30th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of International Blasphemy Rights Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you need know about International Blasphemy Rights Day.

📅 What day is International Blasphemy Rights Day 2024?

In 2024, International Blasphemy Rights Day is on Saturday, September 30th. It is the 5th Saturday in September; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can see all intriguing details and facts about September 30, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Can you imagine living in a world where expressing your ideas and opinions could actually cost you your life? Unfortunately, this is the grim reality for millions of people living in countries that have blasphemy laws. Blasphemy refers to any form of speech or expression that challenges or goes against a particular religion and its beliefs. Since 2009, the Center of Inquiry has dedicated September 30 as International Blasphemy Rights Day to shed light on the oppressive blasphemy laws that exist in more than 69 nations, and to encourage awareness and advocacy for change.

📜 International Blasphemy Rights Day History

Ahmed Akkari rallied support from Muslim-majority countries in order to launch a campaign against the Danish government. This campaign was fueled by months of frenzy and misinformation. The consequences of these demonstrations were widespread, as Danish embassies worldwide were attacked and over 100 individuals, including protesters, lost their lives.

This act of religious intolerance caused a significant impact globally and ignited debates about the boundaries of free speech. Several years later, Ronald A. Lindsay, CEO of the Center for Inquiry, was approached with the idea of commemorating the right to free expression on the anniversary of the controversial Danish article. Since 2009, September 30th has been recognized as International Blasphemy Rights Day.

It is important to emphasize the purpose of this day. International Blasphemy Rights Day is observed to defend freedom of expression, not to ridicule any specific religious belief. Blasphemy laws undermine the core principles of our freedom. On this day, we remember that no religion or group is exempt from criticism.

✅ International Blasphemy Rights Day Facts

🔖 Pakistan
In Pakistan, if someone unlawfully enters a burial cemetery or desecrates a place of worship, they can be sentenced to imprisonment.

🔖 Iran
In Iran’s Islamic theocratic system, expressing dissent towards the Islamic regime or showing disrespect towards Islam can lead to severe consequences, including the possibility of facing death penalty.

🔖 Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, it is illegal to commit blasphemy, which is considered a serious offense. Those who engage in blasphemy can face severe punishment, including the possibility of being sentenced to death by hanging.

👍 Why Is International Blasphemy Rights Day Important

Humans worldwide are “tied in a single garment of destiny,” to paraphrase the great Martin Luther King Jr. Turning our backs on the severe injustices that others experience can be disastrous. It is our moral obligation to speak out against injustices occurring hundreds of kilometers away.

We all agree that no religion is immune to criticism. The right to speak out against prejudice and injustice must not be jeopardized. Yet, for millions of individuals, this is the reality. By coming together on September 30, we will send a powerful message to the enablers of blasphemy laws all over the world.

Opposition to repressive policies is never in vain. In the last decade alone, there has been considerable societal transformation. We think that one day, blasphemy laws will be abolished, which is why we mark International Blasphemy Rights Day.

🙂 How To Observe International Blasphemy Rights Day

⚡ Promote open dialogue

⚡ Raise awareness about the issue
Numerous countries have laws against blasphemy enshrined in their constitutions. In some jurisdictions, making a blasphemous statement or giving a blasphemous speech can lead to the death penalty. Additionally, there have been instances of extrajudicial executions linked to blasphemy. On September 30th, spread awareness about the significant number of individuals who have lost their lives due to allegations of blasphemy.

⚡ Create a social media campaign
Engage in an open discourse with those with whom you disagree. Whether it be politics, lifestyle choices, or culinary preferences, variety of opinion and freedom to express it must be celebrated.

📅 When is International Blasphemy Rights Day?

Explore all 🔗 September holidays, including 🔗 Religious and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

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