Cesar Chavez Day (California) U.S. - Mar 31
César Chávez's birthday, March 31, is celebrated in California as a state holiday, intended to promote service to the community in honor of Chávez's life and work. Many, but not all, state government offices, community colleges, and libraries are closed. Many public schools in the state are also closed. Texas also recognizes the day, and it is an optional holiday in Arizona and Colorado. Although it is not a federal holiday, the President proclaims March 31 as César Chávez Day in the United States, with Americans being urged to "observe this day with appropriate service, community, and educational programs to honor Cesar Chavez's enduring legacy."
HUNGARY Minister Hende paid visits to Hungar- Int e r na tiona l c r it ic is m a ga ins t PM ian Military Units in Afghanistan Vik t or O r b á n t o be e x a gge r a t e d: U S
National Day Malta - Mar 31
March 31, 1979 is remembered in the Maltese calendar as Freedom Day (Maltese: Jum il-Ħelsien). This is the anniversary of the withdrawal of British troops and the Royal Navy from Malta. On taking power in 1971, the Labour Government indicated it wanted to the lease re-negotiate agreement with the United Kingdom. Following protracted and sometimes tense talks, a new agreement was signed whereby the lease was extended till the end of March 1979 at a vastly increased rent. On March 31, 1979 the last British Forces left Malta. For the first time in millennia, Malta was no longer a military base of a foreign power and it became independent de facto as well as de jure. A monument on the Birgu (Vittoriosa) waterfront commemorates this event.
Transfer Day - Mar 31 US Virgin Islands
Transfer Day is a holiday celebrated in the U.S. Virgin Islands on March 31. It marks the transfer of the islands from Denmark to the United States that took place in 1917.
April Fool's Day Worldwide - A p r 0 1
April Fools' Day is celebrated around the world on April 1 every year. Sometimes referred to as All Fools' Day, April 1 is not a national holiday, but is widely recognized and celebrated as a day when many people play all kinds of jokes and foolishness. The day is marked by the commission of good-humoured or otherwise funny jokes, hoaxes, and other practical jokes of varying sophistication on friends, family members, teachers, neighbors, work associates, etc. Traditionally, in some countries such as Canada, New Zealand, the UK, Australia, Cyprus, and South Africa, the jokes only last until noon, and someone who plays a trick after noon is called an "April Fool" and taunted "April Fool's Day's past and gone, You're the fool for making one."Elsewhere, such as in France, Italy, South Korea, Japan, Russia, The Netherlands, Germany, Brazil, Ireland, and the U.S., the jokes last all day. In France and Italy children (and adults, when appropriate) traditionally tack paper fish on each other's back as a trick and shout "april fish!" in their local language ("poisson d'avril!" and "pesce d'aprile!" in French and Italian respectively). The earliest recorded association between April 1 and foolishness can be found in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales (1392). Many writers suggest that the restoration of January 1 as New Year's Day in the 16th century was responsible for the creation of the holiday, but this theory does not explain earlier references.
Origins
Precursors of April Fools' Day include the Roman festival of Hilaria, held March 25, and the Medieval Festival of Fools, held December 28, still a day on which pranks are played in Spanish-speaking countries. In Chaucer's Canterbury Tales (1392), the "Nun's Priest's Tale" is set Syn March bigan thritty dayes and two. Modern scholars believe that there is a copying error in the extant manuscripts and that Chaucer actually wrote, Syn March was gon. Thus the passage originally meant 32 days after April, i.e. May 2, the anniversary of the engagement of King Richard II of England to Anne of Bohemia, which took place in 1381. Readers apparently misunderstood this line to mean "March 32", i.e. April 1. In Chaucer's tale, the vain cock Chauntecleer is tricked by a fox. In 1508 French poet Eloy d'Amerval referred to a poisson d’avril (April fool, literally "April fish"), a possible reference to the holiday. In 1539, Flemish poet Eduard de Dene wrote of a nobleman who sent his servants on foolish errands on April 1. In 1686, John Aubrey referred to the holiday as "Fooles holy day", the first British reference. On April 1, 1698, several people were tricked into going to the Tower of London to "see the Lions washed". In the Middle Ages, New Year's Day was celebrated on March 25 in most European towns. In some areas of France, New Year's was a week-long holiday ending on April 1. Many writers suggest that April Fools originated because those who celebrated on January 1 made fun of those who celebrated on other dates. The use of January 1 as New Year's Day was common in France by the mid-16th century, and this date was adopted officially in 1564 by the Edict of Roussillon.
Other prank days in the world
Iranians play jokes on each other on the 13th day of the Persian new year (Norouz), which falls on April 1 or April 2. This day, celebrated as far back as 536 BC, is called Sizdah Bedar and is the oldest prank-tradition in the world still alive today; this fact has led many to believe that April Fools' Day has its origins in this tradition. The April 1 tradition in France, Romandy and French-speaking Canada includes poisson d'avril (literally "April's fish"), attempting to attach a paper fish to the victim's back without being noticed. This is also widespread in other nations, such as Italy, where the term Pesce d'aprile(literally "April's fish") is also used to refer to any jokes done during the day. In Spanish-speaking countries, similar pranks are practiced on December 28, día de los Santos Inocentes, the "Day of the Holy Innocents". This custom also exists in certain areas of Belgium, including the province of Antwerp. The Flemish tradition is for children to lock out their parents or teachers, only letting them in if they promise to bring treats the same evening or the next day. Under the Joseon dynasty of Korea, the royal family and courtiers were allowed to lie and fool each other, regardless of their hierarchy, on the first snowy day of the year. They would stuff snow inside bowls and send it to the victim of the prank with fake excuses. The recipient of the snow was thought to be a loser in the game and had to grant a wish of the sender. Because pranks were not deliberately planned, they were harmless and were often done as benevolence towards royal servants. In Poland, prima aprilis ("April 1" in Latin) is a day full of jokes; various hoaxes are prepared by people, media (which sometimes cooperate to make the "information" more credible) and even public institutions. Serious activities are usually avoided. This conviction is so strong that the anti-Turkish alliance with Leopold I signed on April 1, 1683, was backdated to March 31. In Scotland, April Fools' Day is traditionally called Hunt-the-Gowk Day ("gowk" is Scots for a cuckoo or a foolish person), although this name has fallen into disuse. The traditional prank is to ask someone to deliver a sealed message requesting help of some sort. In fact, the message reads "Dinna laugh, dinna smile. Hunt the gowk another mile". The recipient, upon reading it, will explain he can only help if he first contacts another person, and sends the victim to this person with an identical message, with the same result. In Denmark, May 1 is known as "Maj-kat", meaning "May-cat", and is also a joking day. May 1'st is also celebrated in Sweden as an alternative joking day. When someone has been fooled in Sweden, to disclose that it was a joke, the fooler says the rhyme "April April din dumma sill, jag kan lura dig vart jag vill" (April, April, you stupid herring, I can fool you to wherever I want") for April 1st jokes, or "Maj maj måne, jag kan lura dig till Skåne" (May May moon, I can fool you into Scania) for May 1st jokes. Both Danes and Swedes also celebrate April Fools' Day ("aprilsnar" in Danish). Pranks on May 1, are much less frequent. Most Swedish news media outlets will publish exactly one false story on April 1, for newspapers this will typically be a first-page article but not the top headline. In Spain and Ibero-America, an equivalent date is December 28, Christian day of celebration of the Massacre of the Innocents. The Christian celebration is a holiday in its own right, a religious one, but the tradition of pranks is not, though the latter is observed yearly. After somebody plays a joke or a prank on somebody else, the joker usually cries out, in some regions of Ibero-America: "Inocente palomita que te dejaste engañar" ("You innocent little dove that let yourself be fooled"). In Spain, it is common to say just "Inocente!" ("Innocent!"). Nevertheless, in the Spanish island of Menorca, "Dia d'enganyar" ("Fooling day") is celebrated on April 1 because Menorca was a British possession during part of the 18th century.
Republic Day Iran - A p r 0 1
The country of Iran holds a yearly gathering every April 1st in remembrance of the country’s Islamic Republic constitution that was officially proclaimed on 1979. Islamic Republic Day is one of Iran’s most historic celebrations. It was proclaimed to be a national holiday approximately two months after the success of the Islamic Revolution on 1979.
History
The Iranian people were unified by a common purpose were able to oust the Pahlavi administration and restored the Islamic laws and the country’s sovereignty. This regime was established under the ruling power of the British and was supported by the Americans as well. The Iranian Revolution started on 1978 all aiming to bring down Shah, the King. Because of this revolution, followed by a series of rallies and strikes, the Iranian economy deteriorated so badly and the country underwent a national economic catastrophe. The country then conceded and declared its government to be neutral against any war which subsequently resulted to the abolishment of the Pahlavi Dynasty. On the 30th and 31st of March which is the 10th and 11th of Farvadin to the Islams, the government passed a referendum aiming to replace the monarchy with an Islamic Republic. The referendum was a success since almost 98.2 percent of the people voted for its approval. April 1, 1979 was the official affirmation of Iran as an Islamic Republic and since then, the 1st of April has been observed yearly by the people to commemorate the Islamic Republic Day.
Celebrations
The people look to this day with honor and salutation because it is considered as one of the triumphs and accomplishments of Iran as a nation. Several rallies and activities are also held nationwide during this special day. Some civic groups organize educational campaigns that educates the youth about the history and culture of the country. Declared as an official non-working public holiday, the Iranians also celebrate the Islamic Republic Day as a family day or a chance to meet up and be reunited with friends and loved ones.
International Children's Book Day Worldwide - A p r 0 2
International Children's Book Day is a yearly event sponsored by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), an international non-profit organization. Founded in 1967, the day is observed on or around Hans Christian Andersen's birthday, April 2. Activities include writing competitions, announcements of book awards and events with authors of children's literature.
History
International Children's Book Day is an annual event, which is held on around April 2, the birth date of Hans Christian Andersen. It is sponsored by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY). According to the IBBY Web site, "International Children's Book Day (ICBD) is celebrated to inspire a love of reading and to call attention to children's books." Each year, one of the 70 National Sections of the IBBY around the world serves as the international sponsor of ICBD. It selects the theme and oversees the development of promotional materials for ICBD. The materials are then used to promote reading and children's books. Often, schools and libraries hold events in conjunction with International Children's Book Day. The 2011 international sponsor is Estonia and the theme is "The Book Remembers." You can see the stunning 2011 International Children's Book Day poster here. The theme of the 2010 International Children's Book Day, which was sponsored by Spain, was "A book is waiting for you, find it!" The 2009 international sponsor was EBBY, The Egyptian Section of IBBY, and the 2009 theme was "I am the World." See the 2009 poster above. The theme of the 2008 International Children's Book Day, which was sponsored by the Thailand IBBY National Section, was "Books Enlighten: Knowledge Delights." There are wonderful children's books being published around the world. ICBD is a good time to make a point of sharing books originally published in other countries with your children.
Declaration of the 2nd Republic Guinea - A p r 0 3
Guinea is one the countries in West Africa also known as Republic of Guinea which is also often called French Guinea or GuineaConakry. Republic of Guinea is different and should not be confused with Equatorial Guinea, Guinea Bissau, New Guinea and Papua New Guinea. Every year, the country commemorates the anniversary of the declaration of its 2nd Republic which was held on 1984. This public celebration happens every 3rd of April.
History Soon after Guinea achieved its independence from Spain on
1958, the government was put into dictatorship ruled only by a single party. During these times, under the ruling power of its president then which is Sékou Touré, the country had no tolerance for human rights like the right to speech, oppression and political freedom. Touré’s administration became a nightmare for the people as there were thousands sent to prison and more than a million were expelled. Because of the way the president handled the country, Guinea lost its reputation and devastated its good relationship with other countries which contributed a lot to the downfall of the country’s economy. Soon after the death of Touré on 1984, Lieutenent Colonel Lansana Conte instituted a government by the army called the Military Committee for National Recovery or CMRN. Conte, taking over as president immediately abolished the constitution along with its sole political party. And on April 3, 1984, President Conte officially proclaimed the establishment of Guinea’s Second Republic. The second republic aimed for the quick development and recovery of the country. The victims of the old administration were also set free and human right was given much attention.
Celebrations Since the country was re-born under a new republic, Guinea, along with its people never fails to remember and look
back at their history by celebrating the anniversary of the Declaration of the Second Republic every April 3. As one way to educate the youth with their memorable history, several offices from the government hold parades and activities all throughout the country. Most politicians also hold speeches about their mission and vision for the country in the future.
Independence Day Senegal - A p r 0 4
Senegal officially the Republic of Senegal (République du Sénégal) is a country in West Africa. It owes its name to the Sénégal River that borders it to the east and north. Senegal is externally bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Mauritania to the north, Mali to the east, and Guinea and Guinea-Bissau to the south; internally it almost completely surrounds the Gambia, namely on the north, east and south, except for Gambia's short Atlantic coastline. Senegal covers a land area of almost 197,000 square kilometres (76,000 sq mi), and has an estimated population of about 13 million. The climate is tropical with two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Dakar, the capital city of Senegal, is located at the westernmost tip of the country on the Cap-Vert peninsula. About 500 kilometres (300 mi) off the coast lie the Cape Verde Islands. During the 17th and 18th centuries, numerous trading posts, belonging to various colonial empires, were established along the coast. The town of St. Louis became the capital of French West Africa (Afrique occidentale française, or AOF) before it was moved to Dakar in 1902. Dakar became its capital in 1960 at the time of independence from France. The country is part of The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Integrated with the main bodies of the international community, Senegal is also a member of the African Union (AU) and the Community of Sahel-Saharan States. Since 2 April 2012, the country's president has been Macky Sall.
History Archaeological findings throughout the area indicate that Senegal was inhabited in
prehistoric times. Senegal was part of the kingdom of Takrur in the 9th century and the Jolof kingdom, during the 13th and 14th centuries. In the mid-15th century, the Portuguese landed on the Senegal coastline, followed by other countries including the French. Eastern Senegal was once part of the Empire of Ghana. Modern Senegal has always been occupied by various ethnic groups. Around the 11th Century Islam became the religion of some Senegalese tribes, though not in great numbers. In the 13th and 14th centuries, the area came under the influence of the empires to the east; the Jolof Empire of Senegal was also founded during this time. In the Senegambia region, between 1300 and 1900, close to one-third of the population was enslaved. Various European powers—Portugal, the Netherlands, and Great Britain—competed for trade in the area from the 15th century onward, until in 1677, France ended up in possession of what had become a minor slave trade departure point—the island of Gorée next to modern Dakar, used as a base to purchase slaves from the warring chiefdoms on the mainland. Some kingdoms were created around the 7th century: the Tekrour, the Namandirou Slave traders in Gorée, kingdom and then the Djolof with distant ties to the Ghana empire. In the 14th cen- 18th century. tury the Djolof kingdom became a powerful empire having united Cayor, and the kingdoms of Baol, Sine, Saloum, Waalo, Fouta-Toro and Bambouk. The empire was a voluntary confederacy of various states rather than an empire built on military conquest. The empire was founded by Ndiadiane Ndiaye, a part Serer and partToucouleur, who was able to form a coalition with many ethnicities, but collapsed around 1549 with the defeat and killing of Lele Fouli Fak by Amari Ngone Sobel Fall. French colonialists progressively invaded and took over all kingdoms except Sine and Saloum under governor Louis Faidherbe. Islam was introduced in Senegal during the 8th and 9th centuries by Berber merchants. They peacefully converted the Toucouleurs and Sarakholles who in turn propagated it. Later on, in the 11th century, the Almoravids, with the help of the Toucouleurs used Jihad as a mean of conversion. This movement faced resistance from ethnicities of traditional religion, the Serers in particular. Eventually, Berbers won a peaceful conversion among the Wolofs with the intervention of leaders like Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, El Hadj Malick Sy, and Seydina Limamou Laye who were able to convince their followers. They saw Islam as a way to unite and fight against colonial power. The populations were getting weary of repeated jihads and forced colonization. Europeans missionaries introduced Christianity to Senegal and the Casamance in the 19th century. An emblematic figure of Casamance is Aline Sitoe Diatta, a woman who led the resistance movement against European colonialists. It was only in the 1850s that the French began to expand onto the Senegalese mainland (by now rid of slavery and promoting abolitionist doctrine), adding native chiefdoms such as Waalo, Cayor, Baol, and Jolof. Senegalese chiefs' resistance to the French expansion and curtailing of their lucrative slave trade was led in part by Lat-Dior, Damel of Cayor, and Maad a Sinig Kumba Ndoffene Famak Joof, the Maad a Sinig of Sine, resulting in the Battle of Logandème. On 4 April 1959 Senegal and the French Sudan merged to form the Mali Federation, which became fully inde- Colonial Saint Louis c. 1900. Europeans and pendent on 20 June 1960, as a result of the independ- Africans on the Rue Lebon ence and the transfer of power agreement signed with France on 4 April 1960. Due to internal political difficulties, the Federation broke up on 20 August, when Senegal and French Sudan (renamed the Republic of Mali) proclaimed independence. Léopold Senghor was proclaimed Senegal's first president in September 1960. Senghor was a very well read man, educated in France. He was a poet, a philosopher and personally drafted the Senegalese national anthem, "Pincez tous vos koras, frappez les balafons". He was very pro-African, and also advocated a brand of African socialism. In 1980, President Senghor decided to retire from politics, and he handed power over in 1981 to his handpicked successor, Abdou Diouf. Mamadou Dia ran for reelection in 1983 against Diouf but lost. Senghor moved to France where he later died at the age of 96. Senegal joined with the Gambia to form the nominal confederation of Senegambia on 1 February 1982. However, the union was dissolved in 1989. Despite peace talks, a southern separatist group in the Casamance region had clashed sporadically with government forces since 1982. Senegal has had a long history of participating in international peacekeeping. Abdou Diouf was president between 1981 and 2000. He encouraged broader political participation, reduced government involvement in the economy, and widened Senegal's diplomatic engagements, particularly with other developing nations. Domestic politics on occasion spilled over into street violence, border tensions, and a violent separatist movement in the southern region of the Casamance. Nevertheless, Senegal's commitment to democracy and human rights strengthened. Abdou Diouf served four terms as president. In the presidential election of 1999, opposition leader Abdoulaye Wade defeated Diouf in an election deemed free and fair by international observers. Senegal experienced its second peaceful transition of power, and its first from one political party to another. On 30 December 2004 President Wade announced that he would sign a peace treaty with the separatist group in the Casamance region. This, however, has yet to be implemented. There was a round of talks in 2005, but the results have not yet yielded a resolution.
Memorial Day of Chiang Kai-shek Taiwan - A p r 0 5
Chiang Kai-shek (October 31, 1887 – April 5, 1975) was a 20th-century Chinese political and military leader. He is known as Jiang Jieshi (蔣介石) or Jiang Zhongzheng (蔣中正) in Mandarin Chinese. Chiang was an influential member of the Kuomintang (KMT), or Nationalist Party, and was a close ally of Sun Yat-sen. He became the Commandant of the Kuomintang's Whampoa Military Academy, and took Sun's place as leader of the KMT when Sun died in 1925. In 1926, Chiang led the Northern Expedition to unify the country, becoming China's nominal leader. He served as Chairman of the National Military Council of the Nationalist government of the Republic of China (ROC) from 1928 to 1948. Chiang led China in the Second Sino-Japanese War, during which the Nationalist government's power severely weakened, but his prominence grew. Unlike Sun Yat-sen, Chiang Kai-shek was socially conservative, promoting traditional Chinese culture in the New Life Movement and rejecting western democracy and the nationalist democratic socialism that Sun Yat-sen and some other members of the KMT embraced in favor of a nationalist authoritarian government. Chiang's predecessor, Sun Yat-sen, was well-liked and respected by the Communists, but after Sun's death Chiang was not able to maintain good relations with the Communist Party of China (CPC). A major split between the Nationalists and Communists occurred in 1927; and, under Chiang's leadership, the Nationalists fought a nation-wide civil war against the Communists. After Japan invaded China in 1937, Chiang agreed to a temporary truce with the CPC. Despite some early cooperative military successes against Japan, by the time that the Japanese surrendered in 1945 neither the CPC nor the KMT trusted each other or were actively cooperating. After American-sponsored attempts to negotiate a coalition government failed in 1946, the Chinese Civil War resumed. The CPC defeated the Nationalists in 1949, forcing Chiang's government to retreat to Taiwan, where Chiang imposed martial law and persecuted people critical of his rule in a period known as the "White Terror". After evacuating to Taiwan, Chiang's government continued to declare its intention to retake mainland China. Chiang ruled the island securely as President of the Republic of China and General of the Kuomintang until his death in 1975. He ruled mainland China for 22 years, and Taiwan for 26 years.
W O R L D W I D E EVENTS/ZARB-EJAMHOOR NEWSPAPER CONGRATULATES REPUBLIC OF SENEGAL ON INDEPENDENCE DAY 2013
Photo: Szilárd Koszticsák , MTI (Online 29 Mar) The international community and the Afghan people both highly appreciate the Hungarian soldiers’ performance, which will be of great weight in considering Hungary’ future role in Afghanistan, Minister of Defence Csaba Hende stated during his tour of inspection at the Hungarian contingents in Afghanistan. The Minister of Defence said that through their performance, the Hungarian troops had earned not only unanimous recognition from the international community but also the gratitude of the Afghan government and the Afghan people. In recent days Minister Hende paid a visit to the HDF Kabul International Airport Force Protection Contingent (HDF KAIA FPC), where the second Hungarian rotation arrived some days ago, since due to the Hungarian troops’ achievements, the Hungarian Defence Forces have been requested to continue performing guard and security duties at the Kabul International Airport. The Minister paid a visit to the
headquarters of Special Operations Task Force 10 under which the Hungarian Special Operations Contingent is serving, and heard reports from the commanders of the contingents deployed in Kabul and its environs. He held discussions with the Afghan Minister of Defence, the Deputy Commander of the NATO International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), the ambassador of the European Union and NATO’s Senior Civilian Representative. The Minister of Defence said that the Afghanistan mission would be transformed by the end of 2014, and from that point on, the emphasis would shift to training and advisory roles. The future commitments of participating countries will take shape during discussions held on international and national levels. At the same time, the Minister also noted that visits and discussions like the present one contribute a lot to understanding the partners’ priorities and the things they value the most. By way of example, Minister Hende pointed out that on several occa-
sions the Afghan Minister of Defence had praised very highly the Hungarian Mi-17 Air Advisory Team (AAT) deployed at Shindand Air Base, (Herat Province, Western Afghanistan) which trains transport helicopter pilots. In his opinion, it has now become clear that the Afghan government places a very high value on this Hungarian contribution. Evidently, this will be of great weight in considering Hungary’s future role in Afghanistan, the Minister added Currently more than 100,000 troops from 50 countries are participating in the operation within the NATO ISAF mission, which NATO launched under a UN Security Council mandate. The Hungarian Defence Forces contribute around 1,000 troops to international peace support operations, of which more than 530 are deployed with eight contingents in Afghanistan. One of these contingents, the HDF Provincial Reconstruction Team (HUN PRT) is going to terminate its activity in the coming days, and the soldiers serving with it will return to Hungary.
(Online 27 Mar) Congress member Christopher H. Smith, also co-chairman of the US Helsinki Commission said in a written statement that many of the criticisms towards the Orbán Government are unfair, involving double standards, misrepresentation, and inaccurate information. Claudia Leporatti, an Italian journalist based in Budapest and editor of Italian news sites economia.hu and East Journal, rejected reports on alleged autocratic regime in Hungary.in an interview to online magazine ’Il Punto’. She said that stigmatising the Government’s activities as a nationalist turn is highly exaggerated. The picture seen from within is different from the representation provided by the international press, she added, emphasizing that if freedom of speech was as trampled on as the international
press reports, she would never have moved to Hungary as a journalist. European People’s Party’s German MEP (Christian-Democratic Group) Ursula Braun-Moser wrote a letter to Germany’s daily newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung on the ocof criticism regarding casion Hungary’s Fundamental Law, in which she took a clear stance in favour of the Government. It is totally erroneous to say that Hungary is not a democratic country, German social democrat politician Klaus von Dohnanyi said at a panel discussion in Berlin. Dohnanyi, also Federal Minister of Education and Science up until 1981 and former mayor of the city of Hamburg, drew attention to the importance of studying facts thoroughly as well as interpreting Hungarian politics in a particular social and
historical context. In order to understand current developments in Hungary, it must be taken into consideration that Hungarians, despite being freedom-loving people, lived under foreign control for centuries, he added. Georg Paul Hefty, former chief editor of Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung told the podium discussion that German press reports on Hungary are often biased. The event was moderated by Bela Anda, German paper Bild’s editor-in-chief and former spokesperson for Schröder Chancellor’s left-wing Government and included among the discussion’s participants as prominent German public figures as the author and journalist Ildiko von Kürthy and President of the Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau László Ungvári.
Ukraine grateful for Hungary’s assistance in resolving gas supply issues
Qingming Festival China, Taiwan - A p r 0 5
The Qingming Festival (simplified Chinese: 清 明 节 ; traditional Chinese: 清明節; pinyin:Qīngmíng Jié; Pe̍h-ōe-jī: Chheng-bêng-cheh or Chhiⁿ-miâ-choeh, Ching Ming Festival in Hong Kong, Vietnamese: Tết Thanh Minh), Pure Brightness Festival or Clear Bright Festival, Ancestors Day or Tomb Sweeping Day is a traditional Chinese festival on the 104th day after the winter solstice (or the 15th day from the Spring Equinox), usually occurring around April 5 of the Gregorian calendar. Astronomically it is also a solar term. The Qingming festival falls on the first day of the fifth solar term, named Qingming. Its name denotes a time for people to go outside and enjoy the greenery of springtime (踏 青 Tàqīng, "treading on the greenery") and tend to the graves of departed ones. Qingming has been regularly observed as a statutory public holiday in Taiwan and in the Chinese jurisdictions of Hong Kong and Macau. Its observance was reinstated as a nation wide public holiday in mainland China in 2008, after having been previously suppressed by the ruling Communist Party in 1949. The transcription of the term Qingming may appear in a number of different forms, some of which are Qingming, Qing Ming, Qing Ming Jie, Ching Ming (official in Hong Kong) and Ching Ming Chieh.
Introduction The holiday is known by a number of names in the English language:
All Souls Day (not to be confused with the Roman Catholic holiday, All Souls Day, of the same name) • Clear Bright Festival • Ancestors Day • Festival for Tending Graves • Grave Sweeping Day • Chinese Memorial Day • Tomb Sweeping Day • Spring Remembrance • Tomb Sweeping Day and Clear Bright Festival are the most common English translations of Qingming Festival. Tomb Sweeping Day is used in several English language newspapers published in Taiwan.
Photo: Botár Gergely (Online 28 Mar) Ukraine is also expected to show rapid economic growth in the future, and Hungary would like take part in this development, Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said after meeting his Ukrainian counterpart Mikola Yanovych Azarov in Budapest on Thursday. The events in Cyprus of the past few days have made it clear to Hungary that conducting unilateral foreign trade represents a limitation, the Hun-
garian Prime Minister said, referring to the fact that some three-quarters of Hungarian exports are targeted at Western Europe. Hungary must take advantage of opportunities which lie in countries towards the East, such as Ukraine, where real perspective is to be found, he added. Prime Minister Orbán emphasised that Hungary is also stable and has the potential to exploit the opportunity of economic cooperation with the Ukraine.
He asked for Prime Minister Azarov's goodwill and support in connection with language laws passed in Ukraine last year which affect the Hungarian minority living there. He drew his colleague’s attention to the Hungarian community in Ukraine, who are "a loyal community, but one that wishes to preserve its national identity and culture".
Hungary welcomes foreign investors and producers
Origin
Qingming Festival is when Chinese people visit the graves or burial grounds of their ancestors. Traditionally, people brought a whole rooster with them to the graves visited but the occasion has become less formal over time. The festival originated from Hanshi Day (寒食节, literally, Day with cold food only), a memorial day for Jie Zitui (介子推). Jie Zitui died in 636 BC in the Spring and Autumn Period. He was one of many followers of Duke Wen of Jin before he became a duke. Once, during Wen's 19 years of exile, they had no food and Jie prepared some meat soup for Wen. Wen enjoyed it a lot and wondered where Jie had obtained the soup. It turned out Jie had cut a piece of meat from his own thigh to make the soup. Wen was so moved he promised to reward him one day. However, Jie was not the type of person who sought rewards. Instead, he just wanted to help Wen to return to Jin to become king. Once Wen became duke, Jie resigned and stayed away from him. Duke Wen rewarded the people who helped him in the decades, but for some reason he forgot to reward Jie, who by then had moved into the forest with his mother. Duke Wen went to the forest, but could not find Jie. Heeding suggestions from his officials, Duke Wen ordered men to set the forest on fire to force out Jie. However, Jie died in the fire. Feeling remorseful, Duke Wen ordered three days without fire to honour Jie's memory. The county where Jie died is still called Jiexiu (介休, literally "the place Jie rests forever"). Qingming has a tradition stretching back more than 2,500 years. Its origin is credited to the Tang Emperor Xuanzong in 732. Wealthy citizens in China were reportedly holding too many extravagant and ostentatiously expensive ceremonies in honour of their ancestors. Emperor Xuanzong, seeking to curb this practice, declared that respects could be formally paid at ancestors' graves only on Qingming. The observance of Qingming found a firm place in Chinese culture and continued since Ancient China.
Celebration The Qingming Festival is an opportunity
for celebrants to remember and honour their ancestors at grave sites. Young and old pray before the ancestors, sweep the tombs and offer food, tea, wine, chopsticks, joss paper accessories, and/or libations to the ancestors. The rites have a long tradition in Asia, especially among farmers. Some people carry willow branches with them on Qingming, or put willow branches on their gates and/or front doors. They believe that willow branches help ward off the evil spirit that wanders on Qingming. On Qingming people go on family outings, start the spring plowing, sing, and dance. Qingming is also the time when young couples start courting. Another popular thing to do is to fly kites in the shapes of animals or characters from Chinese opera. Another common practice is to carry flowers instead of burning paper, incense or firecrackers. The holiday is often marked by people paying respects to those who died in events considered sensitive in China. The April Fifth Movement and the Tiananmen Incident were major events on Qingming that took place in the history of the People's Republic of China. When Premier Zhou Enlai died in 1976, thousands visited him during the festival to pay their respects. Many also pay respects to victims of the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989 and the graves of Zhao Ziyang and Yang Jia in areas where the right of free expression is generally recognized, as in Hong Kong. In most areas of China observance of sensitive events are suppressed and all public mention of such events is taboo. In Taiwan this national holiday is observed on April 5 because the ruling Kuomintang moved it to that date in commemoration of the death of Chiang Kai-shek on April 5. Despite having no holiday status, the overseas Chinese communities in Southeast Asian nations, such as those in Singapore and Malaysia, take this festival seriously and observe its traditions faithfully. Some Qingming rituals and ancestral veneration decorum observed by the oversea Chinese in Malaysia and Singapore can be dated back to Ming and Qing dynasties, as the oversea communities were not affected by the Cultural Revolution in Mainland China. Qingming in Malaysia is an elaborate family function or a clan feast (usually organized by the respective clan association) to commemorate and honour recently deceased relatives at their grave sites and distant ancestors from China at home altars, clan temples or makeshift altars in Buddhist or Taoist temples. For the oversea Chinese community, the Qingming festival is very much a family celebration and, at the same time, a family obligation. They see this festival as a time of reflection and to honour and give thanks to their forefathers. Overseas Chinese normally visit the graves of their recently deceased relatives on the nearest weekend to the actual date. According to the ancient custom, grave site veneration is only feasible ten days before and after the Qingming Festival. If the visit is not on the actual date, normally veneration before Qingming is encouraged. The Qingming Festival in Malaysia and Singapore normally starts early in the morning by paying respect to distant ancestors from China at home altars. This is followed by visiting the graves of close relatives in the country. Some follow the concept of filial piety to the extent of visiting the graves of their ancestors in mainland China. Traditionally, the family will burn spirit money and paper replicas of material goods such as cars, homes, phones and paper servants. In Chinese culture, it is believed that people still need all of those things in the afterlife. Then family members start take turns to kowtow three to nine times (depending on the family adherence to traditional values) before the tomb of the ancestors. The Kowtowing ritual in front of the grave is performed in the order of patriarchal seniority within the family. After the ancestor worship at the grave site, the whole family or the whole clan feast on the food and drink they brought for the worship either at the site or in nearby gardens in the memorial park, signifying family reunion with the ancestors. Hanshi, the day before Qingming, was created by Chong'er, the Duke Wen of the state of Jin during the Spring and Autumn period. The festival was established after Chong'er accidentally burned to death his friend and servant Jie Zhitui (介之推) (or Jie Zitui) and Jie Zitui's mother. Chong'er ordered the hills in which they were hiding set on fire in the hope that Jie Zitui would return to his service, but the fire killed Jie and his mother. Because of this, people were not allowed to use fires to heat up food and the date became named Hanshi. Eventually, 300 years ago, the Hanshi "celebration" was combined with the Qingming festival and later abandoned by most people.
Photo: Véssey Endre (Online 29 Mar) The Hungarian banking sector is safe, Foreign Minister János Martonyi said in connection with the Cyprus crisis, speaking at a business forum of the American Chamber of Commerce on Thursday. The Minister stated that the "exceptional, one-off situation" in Cyprus affects all European countries and it is in everyone's interests that the crisis be resolved. No one should be blamed for the situation as everybody needs stability, he emphasised. Minister Martonyi pointed out that a strong Euro and Eurozone is also in the interests of Hungary and there is no need for permanent institutional boundaries between members within and outside the single currency zone. He emphasised that promoting growth should be the main objective, but should not be achieved through increasing public debt. A stronger
forint is needed; the Government is not interested in a weaker exchange rate, he added. Central Europe is crucially important for Hungary and a successful regional policy is essential in economic as well as political terms, the Minister highlighted, since a significant amount of Hungarian export is directed towards Central European countries. He stated that though the country is a member of the Transatlantic and the European families, the Central European region is also very important, upon which great emphasis should be placed. Minister Martonyi sees many opportunities for cooperation with countries in the region, such as the Visegrad Group. There was a lot of scepticism surrounding the V4 at first, but today it is more efficient than ever, especially within the framework of the EU,
when the four countries formulate a common standpoint, he stated. At the same time, the Minister emphasised the importance of competition between the region’s countries, which is natural and a good thing. Talking about the reduction of household utility bills, the Minister stated that the country should send a clear welcoming message to foreign investors, but it is obvious that one differentiates between producers and certain service providers. Foreign investors and producers-manufacturers are always welcome, he emphasised. Minister Martonyi also talked about the importance of economic power, but added that after the crisis the world will be different and the question will be: who can adapt better and more rapidly to the post-crisis challenges and increase their competitiveness.
R u s s i a i s H u n g a r y ’s m o s t i m p o r tant trade partner outside the EU
In Chinese tea culture
The Qingming festival holiday has a significance in the Chinese tea culture since this specific day divides the fresh green teas by their picking dates. Green teas made from leaves picked before this date are given the prestigious 'pre-qingming' (清明前) designation which commands a much higher price tag. These teas are prized for having much lighter and subtler aromas than those picked after the festival.
Chakri Day Thailand - A p r 0 6
Thailand celebrates the 6th of April as the foundation day of their royal Chakri Dynasty which is the country’s ruling monarch to date. On this day, they give respect and honor to their kings who led the country since 1782.
History Before the Chakri Dynasty was founded, Thailand, which was
then known as the Kingdom of Siam was experiencing downfall in economy which signaled the Burmese troops to attack the country and take advantage of the land. The people, led by Thong Duang (also known as Rama I or Yodfa Chulaloke) fought back for their rights. However, they were forced to fall back by the Burmese and on the 8th of April, 1767, the Royal capital of Ayutthaya finally fell into the ruling power of Burma. The city was devastated and all its structures and properties were destroyed and taken away by the Burmese troops. The Burmese never managed to invade Ayutthaya for long since the Siamese were aggressively fighting back as well, so they decided to withdraw after a few days of dominion. Despite the retreat, the war between the two nations never stopped and even lasted for years. And on 1779, Thong Duan was appointed to become Siam’s military commander known as Chakri and led the people to unite and fight against the attacks of the Burmese. Chakri or King Rama I formally became the head of the Kingdom of Siam on April 6, 1782 and ruled over the nation for almost 28 years. His supremacy over Siam led to the reconstruction and reinforcement of the whole Kingdom and made the people most prepared to any foreign attack of invasion. During the reconstruction period of the Kingdom, King Rama I proclaimed Bangkok to be the national capital of the Kingdom of Siam which was later on called Thailand.
Celebrations During the celebration of the Chakri Day which happens yearly on April 6, the citizens of the nation actively participate
into government-organized events and ceremonies which include flower offerings and worships to the previous Kings of Thailand. The people also pay tribute to the statue of King Rama I being the first King of the Chakri Dynasty. This is held at King Rama I’s monument at the Royal Pantheon participated by the members of the government offices, ministers and the Thai people nationwide.
Photo: Gergely Botár (Online 27 Mar) One of the most important tasks ahead of Hungarian foreign policy is to balance trade between Hungary and Russia and work down the 5-billion-dollar difference in favour of Russia, State Secretary for Foreign Affairs and External Economic Relations Péter Szijjártó said on Wednesday. Speaking at a forum of the Hungarian-Russian chapter of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MKIK), State Secretary Szijjártó pointed out that Russia is the third most important partner of Hungary and a priority out-
side the EU. He emphasised that the success of an opening towards the East greatly depended on close cooperation between the chamber, the Hungarian Investment and Trade Agency (HITA) and the network of trading houses. On the Hungarian side the greatest potential is in agricultural and food industry products, currently amounting for only 8% of Hungarian export to Russia. The Hungarian official highlighted the importance of having the necessary storage and purchasing capacities, as well as organising
transport and distribution of products. The State Secretary said trading houses would be opened in Moscow, Astana (Kazakhstan), Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) and Beijing this year and these are aimed to help small and medium companies (SMEs). The Hungarian official also decorated Viktor Zubkov, Board Chairman of Gazprom, with the Order of Merit of Hungary Middle Cross with the Star, for his efforts in developing Hungarian-Russian relations.
Only a political solution can resolve the Syrian conflict, says János Maronyi (Online 25 Mar) The foreign ministers of the European Union all agree that efforts must be continued to seek a political solution to the Syrian conflict because that is the only way to end the current "bloodshed", Hungarian Foreign Minister János Martonyi declared following the informal meeting of EU foreign ministers in Dublin on March 23. János Martonyi stated that the Syrian conflict is one of the most acute is-
sues at the moment, but the participants of an informal meeting make no decision, just openly discuss important matters. Thus, the foreign ministers were debating the question of whether the arms embargo against Syria should be lifted after May. He said there are arguments both for and against the lifting of the embargo, "but we need not, and indeed must not take a decision on the issue at the moment". There was consensus
among EU foreign ministers that a political solution must be found, because all other options would imply extremely serious risks – he added. The Hungarian Foreign Minister noted that it was possible to supply non-lethal equipment such as bulletproof vests and transport vehicles to the opposition forces in Syria, just as it was permitted to provide them with technical assistance and consulting.
Fa r e we ll c e r e m ony of t he H unga r ia n PR T t e a m in M a za r -e Sha r if
Drop of Water is a Grain of Gold Day Turkmenistan - Apr 06
President Gurbanguly Berdimuhammedov congratulated workers of the water economy of Turkmenistan on the national holiday "A drop of water is a grain of gold" celebrated annually on the first Sunday of April. As the Ashgabat correspondent of Turkmenistan.ru reports, the message by the head of state was published in central mass media outlets yesterday. "The Turkmen people treat water as the priceless gift of nature, as the sacred wealth without which life would be impossible, the address says. That is why Turkmenistan will continue seeing the development of water economy as one of the most important areas of state policy which will be in the focus of out attention." Water reservoirs named after the 15th anniversary of independence, Hauzhan, Kopetdag, Saryniyaz water reservoirs, "Dostluk" water reservoir built on the border with the Islamic Republic of Iran, dozens of other existing or under-construction hydro-facilities are a striking example of state care of water economy, Gurbanguly Berdimuhammedov said. Speaking about the Turkmen lake which is currently being built in the Karakum desert, Gurbanguly Berdimuhammedov emphasized the importance of this facility for the country's development. "This facility will provide our descendants with plenty of water. It will quench the Turkmen soil's thirst and enhance its fertility, the message says. Large-scale work is under way to provide population with clean drinking water. Water purification facilities have been built in the capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat as well as in Ahal, Balkan, Mary, Lebap and Dashoguz provinces. We will keep paying particular attention to quality of drinking water. Water purification facilities built in every city and village will serve people." The Turkmen leader urged to take care and protect water springs, "consume water with care all along its stream - from river head to fields." "I am sure that all of you, having united and having become a single whole, will aim your concerted efforts, patriotic spirit, forces and abilities at resolving the main task - the fulfillment of your stated commitments - and will stand up to this task with honor," the message says.
Tartan Day International - Apr 06
Tartan Day is a celebration of Scottish heritage on April 6, the date on which the Declaration of Arbroath was signed in 1320. A oneoff event was held in New York City in 1982, but the current format originated in Canada in the mid 1980s. It spread to other communities of the Scottish diaspora in the In 1990s. Australasia the similar International Tartan Day is held on July 1, the anniversary of the repeal of the 1747 Act of Proscription that banned the wearing of tartan. Tartan Days typically have parades of pipe bands, Highland dancing and other Scottish-themed events.
Origins
In 1982, under the auspices of the New York Caledonian Club, New York State Governor Hugh Carey, and New York City Mayor Ed Koch declared July 1, 1982, as Tartan Day, a one-time celebration of the 200th anniversary of the repeal of the Act of Proscription of August 12, 1747, the law forbidding Scots to wear tartan. On March 9, 1986, a 'Tartan Day' to promote Scottish heritage in Canada, was proposed at a meeting of the Federation of Scottish Clans in Nova Scotia. Jean Watson, President of Clan Lamont, petitioned provincial legislatures to recognize April 6 as Tartan Day. The first such proclamation was by Nova Scotia in April 1987; other provinces followed suit until Quebec was the last to fall in line, in December 2003. In Australia, wearing tartan on July 1 has been encouraged since 1989. The day has been promoted as International Tartan Day in Australia since 1996 and has been formally recognized by many states, but not at national level. The United States Senate recognized April 6 as Tartan Day in 1998.
Photo: Koszticsák Szilárd, MTI (Online 29 Mar) The national flag has been lowered in the camp of the Hungarian Defence Forces Provincial Reconstruction Team and an official farewell ceremony has been held in Mazar-e Sharif. The soldiers of the last PRT rotation are going to return home from Afghanistan this week. According to a press release of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the official farewell ceremony of the last rotation of the Hungarian PRT took place in the presence of Minister of Defence Csaba Hende on Tuesday, March 26 in Mazar-e Sharif. During the event, Col. Antal Sipos, the commander of the 13th rotation of the PRT handed
over to the Minister of Defence the national flag lowered in the camp of the PRT. In his speech, Minister Hende remembered the seven Hungarian service personnel who had died in the line of duty. “They made the supreme sacrifice by giving their lives while carrying out the mission” – the MoD wrote in its press release. Col. Antal Sipos, the commander of the contingent summed up the activities of the last six months. Over the 183 days of its deployment, the last PRT rotation has implemented more than 660 projects in Baghlan Province. All in all, in the last six and
a half years the educational programs of the PRT involved around 40-50 thousand children of school age. The improving conditions of the education infrastructure concerned 15 per cent of the children of school age in the province, the Ministry of Defence wrote. Hungary has been running a Provincial Reconstruction Team in Province, Northern Baghlan Afghanistan since October 2006. According to the MoD press release, more than 2,500 Hungarian troops served with the PRT contingent between October 2006 and March 2013. Some of them have completed three or four tours of duty here.
Hungarian community in Pakistan celebrated 165th anniversary of "Revolution-1848"
(Online 28 Mar) Depicting the multiculturalism between Pakistani and Hungarian artists, exhibition entitled <strong>‘Merging Imaginations: To celebrate the 165th Anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution &amp; War of Independence, 15th March 1848’</strong> kicked off at National Art Gallery of Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA) Islamabad on Thursday. The Hungarian embassy team includ-
are thriving in both countries. The organizers also offered the Hungarian soft drinks and delicious traditional Hungarian food to valued guests. The paintings will be on display until May 09 at the National Art Gallery of Pakistan National Council of Arts without entry fee or charges. Dear Guests, It is a great pleasure and honour for
Many people, mostly young, sacrificed their life for freedom. Following their sacrifice the Nation paid a high price. But sacrifices in history are never in vain. Since then every year in March we pay a tribute to them, to the ideas they were fighting for. This exhibition does not intend to reflect any revolutionary idea but since we have chosen young contemporary artists from Hungary and Pakistan we cannot avoid referring to those young
ing Ambassador H.E. Mr. István Szabó and Mrs. Emilia Szabó inaugurated the exhibition. The opening ceremony was attended by a number of high-ranking Hungarian officials, diplomats, defence attaches, journalists, social workers, business community and prominent members of Pakistani expatriate community. Featured in the exhibition are art-
me to welcome you on this occasion. The exhibition you have honoured by your visit is a respectable effort of young Hungarian and Pakistani artists who were very enthusiastic and stood ready to share with you their ideas, feelings and imagination about our contemporary world. This experiment is a unique opportunity to convey the idea that art does not respect borders.
people who believed in a better future and were ready to risk their lives to achieve it for themselves and others. Artists have a special ability to feel when the time is ripe for change in a society; they have a special and sophisticated sense to the problems and injustices. On the other hand they have special eyes reflecting the beauties of nature or just the happy moments of our everyday life. To put
works of an assortment of artists in bold brush strokes and intricate color interaction. The works give a unique glimpse into the lives of the people of two countries. Works on display are characterised by various artistic skills and a sense of distinctive beauty which has kept the artwork popular through the centuries. There is also a huge assortment of artistic styles and techniques that are also presented at the exhibition. The exhibition is also targeted at students in an attempt to assist them with visual material which they can make reference to when responding to their school art syllabus. Guests congratulated Hungarian envoy, H.E. Mr. István Szabó for putting jointly the exhibition, proving once again that contemporary arts
Hungary celebrated her National Day on 15th of March, the 165th anniversary of the Revolution and War of Independence in 1848. That was an extraordinary spring in Europe. Young people went to the streets in many capitals of Europe to protest against the existing oppressive and rigid regimes of monarchies of the Holy Alliance. Revolutions started everywhere and in Buda and Pest the events very soon turned into a national fight for independence, for freedom. The desire for freedom and drastic changes vehemently swept away centuries-old feudalistic structures. Although the war was lost the ruling classes could not continue their oppressive politics along the same old lines. Progressive reforms had to be implemented and peaceful development could be started.
it in a more simple way: Using their talent and the tools of art available to them they can express our feelings, our desires, our doubts, our fears, our happiness and our moods with eloquence unattainable by us. We hope that the paintings and sculptures of young Hungarian and Pakistani artists displayed here today provide you with an exciting and interesting experience. Allow me to express my gratitude and thanks to the artists, to the Pakistan National Council of the Arts and also to the whole staff of my embassy for their dedicated, tireless efforts to organize this event. Last but not least I am greatly indebted to MOL Pakistan Oil and Gas Corporation for sponsoring our joint exhibition.
Speech of H.E. István Szabó:
Canada
Canada estimates 15.1% or 4.7 million Canadians claim Scottish descent. As stated above, Tartan Day in Canada originated with a proposal from the Federation of Scottish Clans in Nova Scotia and has since been proclaimed by all the provincial legislatures. In 2007 Peter Stoffer introduced a Private member's bill for "An Act respecting a Tartan Day". Progress of the bill was interrupted by the 2008 election, but it has been resubmitted. An annual 'Gathering of the Clans' will take place each April 6 or on the Sunday nearest to it on Parliament Hill in Ottawa at noon with pipes, drums, and dancing hosted by the Sons of Scotland Pipe Band, Canada's oldest civilian pipe band. The celebrations in 2011 will also mark the first time that Tartan Day has been celebrated with Canada's official tartan having been named- the Maple Leaf.
Australia and New Zealand
Three million Australians are either Scottish or of Scottish descent. International Tartan Day in Australia and New Zealand is celebrated on a local basis in most states on July 1 (or by some community organizations on the nearest Sunday), the anniversary of the Repeal Proclamation of 1782 annulling the Act of Proscription of 1747, which had made wearing tartan an offense punishable with up to seven years' transportation. According to Scottish House secretary Moyna Scotland, the tendency to disguise Scottish associations was mirrored in Australia: 'Scots did what they were told to do when they came to Australia assimilate and integrate and they almost disappeared', and consequently one aim of Tartan Day is to help Australians reconnect with their Scottish ancestry. A tartan revival started in 1822, and Queensland and Australia have their own tartans. In 1989 the Scottish Australian Heritage Council began to encourage Australians to wear tartan on July 1, when more than half a million Australians gather for a celebration of Scottish heritage, combining nostalgia with Australian citizenship ceremonies, and fund-raising for charitable causes such as drought assistance. Australians without a family tartan are invited to wear the Royal Stewart tartan or the military tartan of the Black Watch. Tartan articles worn on the day include hats, ties and socks. There are many pipe band associations in both Australia and New Zealand, some originating in disbanded Second World War army battalions, and almost 30 heritage events in Australia alone. Some clans, notably the McLeods of South Australia, come together in private events to honor their chief, recite Burns, consume haggis and take part in Highland dancing. A butcher in Maclean, New South Wales, 'the Scottish town in Australia', reportedly celebrates the day by selling haggis burgers. Since 2001 the Scottish Australian Heritage Council and Australian branch of the Scottish National Party have petitioned Canberra for federal recognition of International Tartan Day to celebrate the Scottish contribution to Australian history, including the influence of Scottish radicalism on the trade union movement and the Labor Party, and Australia's allegedly 'egalitarian and meritocratic' society. In 2008 Linda Fabiani, the then Scottish culture minister, floated a proposal to expand the Australian event into an official Scotland Week as part of the Scottish government's international business strategy.
United States
In the United States it is estimated that there are 6 million people who claim Scottish descent. Little was done to follow up the New York event in 1982. In 1998, a Coalition of Scottish Americans with the Support of Senator Trent Lott, successfully lobbied the Senate for the designation of April 6 as National Tartan Day "to recognize the outstanding achievements and contributions made by Scottish Americans to the United States". Senate Resolution 155, passed on March 20, 1998, referred to the predominance of Scots among the Founding Fathers and claimed that the American Declaration of Independence was "modeled on" the Declaration of Arbroath. While this link is plausible, it has not been definitively proven. This is just one opinion. There is a great bit of proof given in the book entitled "Scottish Invention of America, Democracy and Human Rights" and to some degree in the book entitled " How the Scots Invented the Modern World". Thomas Jefferson's education was heavily influenced by Scottish thought. In 2004, the National Capital Tartan Day Committee, a coalition of Scottish-American organizations, successfully lobbied the US House of Representatives. On March 9, 2005, the United States House of Representatives unanimously adopted House Resolution 41, which designates April 6 of each year as "National Tartan Day.” H.Res.41 Chief Sponsors were Congressmen Mike McIntyre from North Carolinaand John Duncan from Tennessee. On April 4, 2008, President George Bush signed a Presidential Proclamation making April 6th National Tartan Day. Here is the content of the Presidential Proclamation: 2008 PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION President George Bush today signed on April 4th 2008 a Presidential Proclamation making April 6th National Tartan Day! Proclamation signed by the President of the United States: Americans of Scottish descent have made enduring contributions to our Nation with their hard work, faith, and values. On National Tartan Day, we celebrate the spirit and character of Scottish Americans and recognize their many contributions to our culture and our way of life. Scotland and the United States have long shared ties of family and friendship, and many of our country's most cherished customs and ideals first grew to maturity on Scotland's soil. The Declaration of Arbroath, the Scottish Declaration of Independence signed in 1320, embodied the Scots' strong dedication to liberty, and the Scots brought that tradition of freedom with them to the New World. Sons and daughters of many Scottish clans were among the first immigrants to settle in America, and their determination and optimism helped build our Nation's character. Several of our Founding Fathers were of Scottish descent, as have been many Presidents and Justices of the United States Supreme Court. Many Scottish Americans, such as Andrew Carnegie, were great philanthropists, founding and supporting numerous scientific, educational, and civic institutions. From the evocative sounds of the bagpipes to the great sport of golf, the Scots have also left an indelible mark on American culture. National Tartan Day is an opportunity to celebrate all Americans who claim Scottish ancestry, and we are especially grateful for the service in our Armed Forces of Scottish Americans who have answered the call to protect our Nation. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 6, 2008, as National Tartan Day. I call upon all Americans to observe this day by celebrating the continued friendship between the people of Scotland and the United States and by recognizing the contributions of Scottish Americans to our Nation. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second. GEORGE W. BUSH The Tunes of Glory Parade organized by Magnus Orr and Thomas Grotrian in 2002 saw 8,250 pipers and drummers march through the streets of New York led by Sir Sean Connery and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. They were the centerpiece of the event where thousands of Americans celebrated their links to Scotland. One of Scotland's national treasures, William Wallace's sword, left Scotland for the first time in 700 years and was flown to New York for the Tartan Week celebrations of 2005. Outside New York City, one of the largest Tartan Day celebrations in the United States takes place each year on the weekend closest to April 6 on the banks of the Missouri river in St. Charles, Missouri. The Missouri Tartan Day Festival began in April 2000, after successful lobbying at the State Capital in Jefferson City, members of the St. Andrew and Celtic Societies of St. Louis, Kansas City, Jefferson City and Springfield, Missouri, gathered on the steps of the State Capitol in Jefferson City to receive the first proclamation of Tartan Day in Missouri. This was for the year 2000 only. In addition to the above celebrations, the Washington, DC, and Baltimore, Maryland, Scottish-American Societies hold Tartan Day Celebrations. These celebrations include a Congressional Reception hosted by Congressman McIntyre and Congressman Duncan and organized by the National Capital Tartan Day Committee, a Tartan Day Festival in Alexandria, Virginia, and various social and educational programs in the first two weeks in April.
Scotland Angus Council, whose region includes Arbroath, established the first Tartan Day festival in Scotland on April 6, 2004,
and has since joined other regional councils in attempting to develop its potential as a global celebration. In 2006 events were held in Arbroath, Aberdeen,Montrose, Kilmarnock, Stirling, Perth, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Argentina Argentina claims around 100,000 people of Scottish descent, the largest such community outside the English-speak-
ing world. The Tartan Day parade of Scottish porteños was inaugurated in Buenos Aires on April 6, 2006. The bearer of the key to Arbroath Abbey attended the march in 2008.