On April6 we will once again celebrate the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) with the #WhiteCard campaign. Established by the United Nations General Assembly and the International Olympic Committee, April6 recognises the role that sport plays in society and its power to foster dialogue, understanding, social inclusion and peace.
This year, as we are all still facing an unprecedented situation, April6 provides the opportunity to highlight the unique power of sport in supporting people and communities to overcome the challenges imposed by the pandemic.
International Day of Sport for Development and Peace
April 6 was declared as the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) by the UN General Assembly in 2013, creating a historical link to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
This decision represented a significant step in recognizing the transformative power of sport and its great potential in advancing positive social change.
Due to its vast reach, unparalleled popularity and foundation of positive values, sport is ideally positioned to contribute towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
Ever since its creation, many organizations and individuals have celebrated on this day the role that sport plays in society and its power to foster dialogue, understanding, social inclusion and peace.
April6 is a celebration of the work being carried out every day by sport organizations, athletes, coaches and NGOs that play a fundamental role by transmitting the educational values of sport to people of all ages throughout the world.
In the current circumstances, April6 provides the opportunity to highlight the unique power of sport in supporting people and communities to overcome the challenges imposed by the pandemic.
#WhiteCard
As a reference to the yellow and the red card in many sports, a #WhiteCard is a symbol, created by the organisation Peace and Sport, representing the positive power of sport for peace and social inclusion.
The core message of the 2021 #WhiteCard campaign is “Behind each #WhiteCard, there is a story”. It seeks to highlight and draw attention to the stories of individuals and communities who have been positively impacted by sport all around the globe.
Through a #WhiteCard, each of us can advocate on the unique power of sport for social development and peace, and share a story on how sport supported us to overcome challenges.
To participate in this year’s #WhiteCard campaign:
Take a picture of yourself while holding a white card. Share it on your social networks using the hashtag #WhiteCard and the tag @internationalrafting and @peaceandsport
Further information on April6, the #Whitecard campaign and the peace through sport movement can be found on the Peace and Sport website.
