A diverse group of people from different cultures and backgrounds standing together, holding hands in unity against a backdrop of UAE national colors, symbolizing tolerance and peaceful coexistence

National Day of Tolerance and Coexistence

ByCH Sharon Bonnell

The National Day of Tolerance and Coexistence is a public holiday in Iraq dedicated to promoting peaceful coexistence and religious harmony, particularly emphasizing the protection and inclusion of the Christian minority in the predominantly Muslim nation.

Quick Facts

When is it: March 6th annually
Tagged as: National Holiday, Peace Day
What’s the hashtag: #IraqToleranceDay
When was it founded: March 6, 2021
Who founded it: Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi

History of Tolerance Day

The holiday was established following the historic first-ever papal visit to Iraq by Pope Francis. This momentous occasion included meetings between the Pope and Grand Ayatollah al-Sistani, as well as an interfaith gathering in Ur, the ancestral home of Abraham. The declaration came as a symbol of Iraq’s commitment to protecting its Christian minority and fostering interfaith dialogue.

Timeline

  • 2014: ISIS persecution of Christians begins
  • 2017: Defeat of ISIS and Christian community rebuilding
  • 2021: Pope Francis visits Iraq
  • 2021: Declaration of National Day of Tolerance and Coexistence

Dates by Next Year

YearMonthDateDay
2025March6Thursday
2026March6Friday
2027March6Saturday
2028March6Monday
2029March6Tuesday

How It’s Observed

The day is marked by public celebrations, interfaith gatherings, and awareness campaigns. Schools and businesses remain closed, allowing citizens to participate in various commemorative events and online celebrations.

Fun Facts About the Day

  • It commemorates the first-ever papal visit to Iraq
  • The day was declared via Twitter by the Prime Minister
  • The celebration connects to the biblical city of Ur
  • It’s observed by both Muslims and Christians

Quiz

  1. When was the day first established?
  2. Who visited Iraq that prompted this holiday?
  3. Where did the interfaith meeting take place?
    (Answers: 2021, Pope Francis, Ur)

FAQs

  • Are there Catholic churches in Iraq? Yes, 17 active dioceses
  • Do people celebrate Christmas in Iraq? Yes
  • Which Arab country has the most Christians? Lebanon

Related

  • International Day for Tolerance
  • World Interfaith Harmony Week
  • Religious Freedom Day
  • International Day of Peace
CH Sharon Bonnell

CH Sharon Bonnell, founder of Calendar-Holidays.com, provides free access to holy day information and printable calendars to promote cultural awareness. Recognized by esteemed publications, the platform fosters global understanding by sharing cultural and religious events, bridging gaps, and building a respectful, connected community.

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