Greeting someone seems like such a mundane and obvious thing to do. But behind this simple gesture, lies a world of peace – and it can start with one word.
Why was World Hello Day created?
In the 1970s, the severity of Egypt and Israel’s conflict had reached a pinnacle point and citizens began fearing another war.
In response, World Hello Day was created by Brian McCormack, a PhD. Graduate of Arizona State University, and Michael McCormack, a graduate of Harvard in 1973. Their goal is to spread the message that conflicts should be resolved through communication, and not violence.
“The idea is that clear, honest communication breeds peace.”
World Hello Day was created as a direct response to the Yom Kippur War in 1973. During the war, thousands of soldiers and innocent civilians died. And some soldiers had to endure being tortured and executed.
The idea of World Hello Day truly changed everything. And at the end of the war, Arab and Israeli officials met for direct public discussion for the first time in 25 years.
Why is the day so important?
Since its creation, World Hello Day is celebrated in 180 countries. And often, citizens take this day to express their concerns for world peace and spread awareness.
Many Nobel Peace Prize winners are huge supporters of World Hello Day and believe that the concept is an extremely took for preserving peace. It is an occasion where anyone in the world – an individual, organization, or government – can contribute to the process of creating peace.
How to participate in World Hello Day
Taking part in the World Hello Day action is super easy! All you have to do is say “hello” to at least 10 people throughout the day.
The idea is that this act of greeting sends a message of “openness and goodwill” to others. The McCormack duo hoped that this small act would demonstrate how communication can help to resolve disputes and can prevent conflict.
Learn how to greet your fellow South Africans in their language this World Hello Day: How to say ‘Hello’ in the 11 Official South African Languages