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26 March: what is celebrated today
26 March brings together commemorations that invite us to look more closely at what sustains life: the balance of the planet, the health of the body and human dignity. These are dates that do not seek a light celebration, but rather collective reflection on how we live, care and include. On this day, science, social awareness and rights meet in the same calendar.
World Climate Day
World Climate Day reminds us that climate is not an abstract concept or a subject exclusive to scientific reports: it is the invisible framework that conditions agriculture, water, food, health and the safety of millions of people. Since its proclamation in 1992, this date has warned about the consequences of accelerated development that has altered the planet’s natural cycles, intensifying global warming and extreme phenomena.
Talking about climate today means talking about shared responsibility. Political, economic and everyday decisions affect the atmosphere, oceans and ecosystems. World Climate Day invites us to think about structural changes — clean energy, environmental protection, international agreements — and also individual actions which, accumulated, can make a real difference.
Epilepsy Awareness Day or Purple Day
26 March is also coloured purple to make epilepsy visible, a neurological condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Purple Day arose from the impetus to break silence and prejudice, recalling that the greatest obstacle for people living with epilepsy is not always the illness, but the social stigma surrounding it.
This day seeks to inform, educate and generate empathy. Knowing what a seizure is, how to act and how to support a person with epilepsy helps build safer and more inclusive environments. Awareness does not cure, but it changes perspectives and opens spaces for understanding and respect.
World Cervical Cancer Prevention Day
Prevention holds a central place on this date devoted to women’s health. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable oncological diseases if detected in time, thanks to regular medical check-ups, screening tests and HPV vaccination.
This day underlines the importance of access to information and health services, as well as health education that makes informed decisions possible. Prevention is not only a medical issue: it is also a tool for equity, especially in settings where late diagnosis continues to cost lives.
Week of Solidarity with Peoples Struggling against Racism and Racial Discrimination
Although it began on 21 March, this week remains present on the 26th with a clear message: racial discrimination continues to be an everyday reality in many societies. The commemoration calls for historical wounds to be recognised, but also for current practices that perpetuate inequalities to be questioned.
Solidarity is not limited to symbolic statements. It means listening, educating, reviewing privileges and promoting policies that guarantee equal rights and opportunities. Remembering this week reaffirms that human dignity admits no exceptions.