Sometimes we forget that there are people around the world who do not have enough money to feed their families. This, and many other issues associated with poverty, are the reasons behind the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. One of the most important days of the year for raising awareness falls on October 17.

What Is International Day for the Eradication of Poverty?

The roots of the day can be traced back to 1987, on October 17th. It was at the Trocadéro in Paris where over a hundred thousand people gathered to honor those impacted by poverty and hunger around the world. Why there? Because it was where the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was signed back in 1948. This recognized that no one should have to endure poverty, as it is against human rights.

By acknowledging the issue of poverty and showing that change needed to happen, it raised awareness, and since then, people have gathered on October 17th around the world to show their support in eradicating poverty. A commemorative stone was unveiled, and this has even been made into replicas around the world to show solidarity for the cause.

People living in poverty experience deprivations that stop them from being able to change their circumstances. This can involve the conditions of their housing, their work conditions, lack of access to education, limited and un-nutritious food, no access or limited access to health care, and a lack of human rights when it comes to justice.

The General Assembly labeled October 17 as International Day for the Eradication of Poverty in 1992, and it is a day that is recognized by the United Nations. The meaning behind the day is to make positive change around the world, for those in all kinds of poverty, but especially extreme poverty.

How To Observe International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

One of the best ways to get involved is to educate yourself on the plight of others around the world. With so many living in abject conditions, it can be easy to turn a blind eye. But, on October 17, we are all encouraged to do more and get involved.

Using the hashtag #EndPoverty on October 17 can help to spread the word. This is also a good way of seeing how others are observing the day and sharing useful articles for others to see.

Another way of helping is to give to a charitable cause concerning poverty. There are plenty of good causes making positive changes around the world. For many people who are victims of their circumstances, they do not have the ability to make changes for themselves. However, many of us are privileged enough to be able to help others lift them out of poverty.

The more we try to eradicate poverty, the closer we get to a world that is better than where we left it. To make a positive change, it all starts with educating ourselves. How fortunate we are to be able to do that when so many others are not.