"Serving a New Generation"
is the theme of Commonwealth Day 2009
to be observed on Monday, 9 March 2009
Commonwealth Day is celebrated on the second Monday in March every year. The aim of commemorating Commonwealth Day is to promote understanding on global issues, international co-operation and the work of the Commonwealth to improve the lives of its two billion citizens.
This year, Commonwealth Day will be celebrated on Monday, 9 March 2009. The theme is "Serving a New Generation", which is the overall theme for the Commonwealth's 60th anniversary year.
Within the Commonwealth community, there are 54 member countries, some two billion people, and a great diversity of cultures, voices and opinions. We are of different nationalities, ethnicity, faiths and political beliefs. But we share common values such as democracy, just and honest government, and advancing the cause of peace and prosperity.
While respecting our differences, the Commonwealth works to promote international understanding, equality and mutual respect in our multicultural world.
Further information about this year's Commonwealth Day theme and activities can be found on the Commonwealth Secretariat web site, the Commonwealth Foundation ('Friends' of the Commonwealth) web site and the Royal Commonwealth Society web site.
In the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, the Royal Commonwealth Society is hosting a Commonwealth Day celebration starting at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 15 at UBC International House (1783 West Mall, University of British Columbia). The programme includes Indian dance, Afro-Caribbean drumming and words from Commonwealth youth. Admission is free and refreshments will be served after the festivities. For further information on the RCS Lower Mainland event, please contact Mr. Shawn Wade at 604-522-5134 or 604-683-3201.
