Commonwealth Day 2016

Held on the second Monday in March every year. Commonwealth Day is an opportunity for individuals, communities and organisations to promote shared Commonwealth values of peace, democracy and equality, and to celebrate the association’s rich diversity.

Fifty-three countries came together to celebrate Commonwealth Day 2016, this year under the theme ‘An Inclusive Commonwealth’. Among the many activities and events taking place globally, a multi-faith service at Westminster Abbey welcomed thousands of guests from around the world.

Here in Glossop, our celebration was a little simpler, with the Deputy Mayor reading out the Commonwealth Affirmation, followed by the Commonwealth flag been raised in Norfolk Square.

In case you’ve not heard of the Commonwealth Affirmation, see below :

The Commonwealth Affirmation
“Joining together as members of one worldwide Commonwealth community, and valuing the personal dignity and worth of every citizen, we raise this flag as a symbol of the ties of kinship and affinity that we cherish. We draw inspiration from our diversity, and the opportunities for working together, as a rich source of wisdom and a powerful influence for good in the world.
We affirm our commitment to upholding the values set out in the Commonwealth Charter, to serving one another in a spirit of respect and understanding, and to advancing development, democracy and cooperation locally, nationally, and internationally.”

Response: “Our pledge is to support the Commonwealth, working together for a future in which there is freedom and justice and prosperity for all, with peace and understanding between peoples and nations.”