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5 September: what is celebrated today
5 September is much more than just a date on the calendar. It is a day when stories of struggle, hope, fraternity, and environmental protection come together. From commemorating Indigenous women who challenged oppression, to defending endangered species, promoting charity, brotherhood, responsible journalism, and health, this day invites us to reflect on the values that sustain humanity.
International Vulture Day
Far from their bad reputation, vultures are key elements of the natural balance. By feeding on carrion, they break the chain of transmission of diseases that would arise from the decomposition of carcasses. That is why protecting them is protecting ourselves.
Spain, a European stronghold. It is home to nearly 80% of Europe's griffon and black vultures. Even so, they face serious risks: collisions with power lines, lack of food and, above all, diclofenac (a veterinary anti-inflammatory drug lethal to these birds). Its use was responsible for the collapse of 99% of vulture populations in India in the 1990s. The lesson is clear: livestock health management is also conservation.
World Beard Day
Aesthetics, identity and tradition: beards never go out of fashion. From ancient symbolism (wisdom, status) to the current trend, what matters is care:
Wash and dry well every day.
Brush to remove dead skin cells.
Clean after meals.
Trim regularly.
Clean hands (we touch our faces more than we think).
Oils or balms to soften and protect.
International Bacon Day
It began in 1997 at the hands of enthusiasts who wanted to bring bacon lovers together. Bacon (tocino/tocineta/panceta) is cured in salt, dried, sometimes smoked, and sliced: an iconic ingredient that has leapt from the frying pan into unusual products (candles, soaps, air fresheners).
International Day of Indigenous Women
In 1983, during the Segundo Encuentro de Organizaciones y Movimientos de América in Tihuanacu, Bolivia, International Day of Indigenous Women was established in honour of Bartolina Sisa, the courageous Aymara leader who confronted colonial power in the 18th century.
More than two centuries later, this date pays tribute to Indigenous women who, with courage and resistance, have preserved their languages, customs and territories despite facing triple discrimination: for being women, Indigenous and poor.
On 5 September 1782, Bartolina was brutally executed, but her fighting spirit continues to inspire thousands of women who today defend their rights and their culture.
International Day of Charity
On the same day, the world remembers Mother Teresa of Calcutta, who died on 5 September 1997 and whose tireless work for the poor and the sick transcended borders.
The UN established this date to promote altruism and encourage nations to fulfil the Sustainable Development Goals, demonstrating that charity and solidarity are powerful forces for transforming realities.
From literacy campaigns to the creation of hospices, the message is clear: true help begins with small actions that come from the heart.
World Sibling Day
5 September also celebrates brotherhood and sisterhood in all its forms. Although in countries such as Argentina Sibling Day is celebrated on 4 March, in much of the world this date honours those who share with us blood, a home or simply bonds of unconditional affection.
As a Vietnamese proverb says: «Brothers and sisters are as close as hands and feet».
World Tourism Journalist Day
During the Octavo Congreso de Periodistas y Profesionales del Turismo in Iguazú, Argentina (2018), World Tourism Journalist Day was established to recognise those who report on destinations, cultures and the environment with ethics and responsibility.
This type of journalism not only inspires travel; it also denounces environmental abuses, promotes sustainability and connects people with the cultural wealth of the planet.
Vaquita Day
5 September also serves to raise awareness of the critical situation of the vaquita, the smallest cetacean and one of the most endangered animals in the world.
Illegal fishing nets and demand for totoaba fish in the Asian market have reduced the vaquita population to fewer than 20 specimens. Saving it is not only an ecological act; it is preserving the balance of an entire ecosystem in the Golfo de California.
International Multiple Myeloma Day
Finally, this date seeks to raise awareness of Multiple Myeloma, a type of blood cancer that mainly affects older people.
With early diagnoses, innovative treatments and support for patients, the aim is to improve the quality of life of those living with this disease.