This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Pidjiguiti Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Pidjiguiti Day is celebrated on August 3rd.
Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Pidjiguiti Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you may want to know about Pidjiguiti Day.
📅 What day is Pidjiguiti Day 2024?
In 2024, Pidjiguiti Day is on Thursday, August 3rd. It is the 1st Thursday in August; in 2024, it is Saturday. There are until the next observance. You also can see all the fun details and facts about August 3, 2023, that you might not be aware of.
Guinea-Bissau marks Pidjiguiti Day as a national holiday every August 3rd. This significant day is dedicated to remembering the tragic event known as the Pidjiguiti massacre, which occurred on the same date in 1959.
📜 Pidjiguiti Day History
The PIDE launched an attack to retake control of the port from the striking workers after security forces rushed in. They used gunfire against the protesters, resulting in the death of 50 people and causing injuries to many others. Some individuals were also arrested and subjected to torture by the PIDE.
These actions by the PIDE were seen as a significant turning point by the P.A.I.G.C. and other independence advocates, as it led to increased opposition against colonial rule. They decided to abandon nonviolent means and instead adopted more assertive tactics. This eventually led to an armed conflict in 1963, eventually resulting in the independence of Guinea-Bissau in 1973 and Cape Verde in 1975. As a tribute to the victims of the massacre, a sculpture named Mo de Timba, depicting a clenched fist, was erected near the port of Pinjiguiti. The name loosely translates to “the hand of a crook” or “a person who accumulates debt and refuses to pay it back.”
✅ Pidjiguiti Day Facts
🔖 Gabu
Guinea-Bissau, in the past referred to as Gabu, was under the rule of the Mali Empire.
🔖 Poor odds
As of 2021, Guinea-Bissau is ranked ninth globally for having one of the lowest life expectancies, with an average lifespan of only 58 years.
🔖 Popular
Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, and Papua New Guinea are commonly referred to as “Guinea.”
👍 Why Is Pidjiguiti Day Important
The Pidjiguiti massacre occurred on this date in 1959. The celebration spurs arguments and legislation to prevent it from happening again.
The atrocity victims are remembered, and their sacrifice is recognized. Torchlight parades commemorate the lives of those who died on this date in 1959.
The holiday commemorates the liberation from colonial domination. It commemorates the first step towards independence for Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde.
🙂 How To Observe Pidjiguiti Day
⚡ Listen to the speech
On this day, the President of Guinea-Bissau delivers a significant speech that is broadcasted on television and witnessed by the entire nation.
⚡ Join the march
In Guinea-Bissau, Pidjiguiti Day is commemorated by lighting candles and taking part in torchlight processions. If you happen to be nearby, you have the option to join the march or organize your own vigil.
⚡ Observe five minutes of silence
To pay tribute to the victims of the tragedy, everyone is requested to observe a five-minute national period of silence today. Let us all take part in remembering those who lost their lives.
📅 When is Pidjiguiti Day?
| YEAR | DATE | DAY |
| 2024 | August 3 | Saturday |
| 2025 | August 3 | Sunday |
| 2026 | August 3 | Monday |
| 2027 | August 3 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | August 3 | Thursday |
You can view all 🔗 August holidays, including 🔗 Federal and other 🔗 Appreciation holidays.
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