As we mark the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development on May 21, a UN-recognized occasion that calls on all nations to honor the richness of human heritage and the importance of intercultural dialogue for peace and sustainable development, we reflect on and celebrate the mosaic of identities, languages, and beliefs that make up the fabric of Syrian society.
In Syria, diversity is not just a feature; it is a legacy. For thousands of years, different religions, ethnicities, sects, languages, and traditions have coexisted across Syria. Various religious and ethnic communities in Syria celebrate holidays like Eid Aladha, Christmas, Eid al-Fitr, Easter, Akitu, Red Wednesday, and Newroz, among many others. Each celebration represents a thread in Syria’s cultural fabric and contributes to Syria’s social and cultural richness. These are not just holidays; they are expressions of identity, resilience, and shared history.
The Center for Civil Society and Democracy (CCSD) calls on all Syrians to make religious and cultural diversity a force for peace, unity, and mutual respect, and we call on civil society organizations to play a vital role in reviving ties through shared cultural experiences, inclusive celebrations, and educational initiatives. At the Center for Civil Society and Democracy (CCSD), we support initiatives by the Syrian civil society that facilitate intercultural celebrations where people from different communities come together to learn, share, and celebrate. We offer capacity-building opportunities for community leaders, youth organizers, and activists related to dialogue facilitation, conflict resolution, and cultural sensitivity. Additionally, we advocate for inclusive policies and work to ensure that all cultural groups are represented in local and national governance.
In honor of this day, we encourage you to share this form with individuals or initiatives—big or small—who are working to bridge divides and foster understanding in Syria. We’re eager to learn about their efforts and explore ways to support them. Whether conversing with someone from a different background, sharing a meal or a celebration with someone outside of your tradition, or reading a book that offers a different perspective, these simple acts can have a powerful impact.
Let us cherish Syria’s cultural mosaic—not as a challenge to overcome, but as a treasure to preserve.