World Day of Social Justice

World Day of Social Justice History

World Day of Social Justice is an observance dedicated to promoting fairness and social equity in all aspects of society. It emphasises the necessity of overcoming barriers that people face due to gender, age, race, ethnicity, religion, culture or disability. The day focuses on the advancement of social justice as it is the foundation for peace and security between and within nations, a cause that is gaining awareness and momentum around the globe. Key aspects of the observance include eradicating poverty, promoting full employment and decent work, gender equity, access to social well-being and justice for all.

The World Day of Social Justice was first observed in 2009, following the United Nations General Assembly's declaration in 2007. For Canadians, this day has significant importance as Canada is a nation built on diversity and multiculturalism. The call to social justice resonates deeply with Canadian values based on equality and respect for all. The tenet of social justice lies in Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, highlighting the country’s commitment to promote social justice both domestically and internationally.

In Canada, World Day of Social Justice is observed through various activities designed to bring awareness to issues of social justice. These activities often include seminars, educational events, and public marches. Institutions, organisations, and individuals participate in these initiatives to emphasize the need for social justice in Canadian society. Public figures and media also play a crucial role in raising awareness. The observance in Canada aligns with the global observance, taking place annually on February 20th, reminding Canadians of their commitment towards creating an equitable society.

Top 8 Facts for 2026 World Day of Social Justice in Canada

• The 2026 global observance of the World Day of Social Justice is centered on the theme Renewed Commitment to Social Development and Social Justice, a focus that stems from the recent Second World Summit for Social Development held in Doha.
• In Canada, the day coincides with the significant milestone of the 30th anniversary of the official recognition of Black History Month, which is being observed under the theme 30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow's Visionaries.
• Public attention is heavily focused on the federal government's legal challenges regarding Jordan’s Principle, following a series of court decisions that have reinforced the state’s obligation to provide essential services to Indigenous children without delay.
• Interest is also high regarding the recent federal-provincial roundtable in Ottawa addressing the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, particularly the controversy surrounding the exclusion of certain off-reserve and non-status Indigenous advocacy groups.
• Many Canadians are following the progress of the Global Coalition for Social Justice, an initiative led by the International Labour Organization that seeks to address the widening income gap and the rising costs of housing that have become central social justice issues across the country.
• Educational institutions and community groups are engaging with the day through localized initiatives such as the Actions for Hope project, which encourages public reflection on the intersection of personal resilience and systemic social change.
• Canadian discourse around this day is often informed by the Strawberry Ceremony, an annual event held on February 14 to honor missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, which underscores the urgent need for justice and reparations for 2SLGBTQQIA+ and Indigenous communities.
• Under the National Strategy on Environmental Racism and Environmental Justice Act, the Canadian government is tasked with addressing the disproportionate health impacts of pollution on racialized communities, with 2026 representing a key year for the delivery of specific policy measures and federal accountability reports.

In the News and Trending in Canada for World Day of Social Justice

Top things to do in Canada for World Day of Social Justice

• Read a book to learn more about Social Justice in Canada:
  Unsettling Canada: A National Wake-Up Call - by Arthur Manuel and Grand Chief Ronald Derrickson: The book looks at the rights of indigenous people in Canada with the aim of providing a just and fair country for all.
  Towards Equity and Inclusion in Canadian Cities - by Fran Klodawsky, Janet Siltanen, and Caroline Andrew: This book provides a unique combination of practical and personal reflections on the issues of inclusion and accessibility in cities.
• Join a Protest or Rally: Social justice-minded organizations often hold demonstrations or peaceful protest to stand against social injustice