National Shoe the World Day is an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of footwear and helping millions worldwide who lack access to proper shoes. Nearly one billion people on Earth don’t have adequate footwear, forcing them to walk barefoot across difficult terrains and climates.
Quick Facts
When is it?: March 15th annually
Tagged as: Awareness & Advocacy, Clothing & Fashion
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalShoeTheWorldDay
When was it founded?: March 2014
Who founded it?: Donald Zsemonadi and United Indigenous People of Fontana, California
History
The day emerged from a recognition that millions worldwide struggle without proper footwear, leading to health issues, educational barriers, and social stigma. Walking barefoot can cause injuries, infections, parasites, and lifetime problems. Schools and businesses often ban entry to those without shoes, creating a cycle of disadvantage.
Timeline
- 3500 BCE: Discovery of oldest known leather shoe in Armenia
- 1800s: Central Europe sees emergence of diverse shoe types
- 1856: William Henry Perkin invents aniline dyeing for leather
- 2014: National Shoe the World Day established
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | March | 15 | Friday |
| 2025 | March | 15 | Saturday |
| 2026 | March | 15 | Sunday |
| 2027 | March | 15 | Monday |
Observed
The day is observed annually on March 15th through shoe drives, volunteering at distribution centers, and fundraising campaigns.
Fun Facts About Shoes
- Over 500 million children and adults lack proper footwear
- The oldest discovered shoes date back to 7000-8000 BC
- Shoe manufacturing became mechanized during Napoleonic wars
- Proper footwear helps correct posture and prevents various foot conditions
Quiz
- How many people globally lack proper footwear?
- In which year was National Shoe the World Day founded?
- How many shoe distribution centers exist in the United States?
(Answers: 1. One billion 2. 2014 3. Nine)
FAQs
Q: How do shoes protect our feet?
A: They guard against sharp objects, infections, elements, and provide support while walking.
Q: Are both feet always the same size?
A: No, one foot is often slightly larger than the other.
Related
- National Everything You Think Is Wrong Day
- World Humanitarian Day
- International Day of Charity