International Day of Families falls on May 15 and offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the bonds that unite us. At home and across borders, this is a time to celebrate family and friendship. Declared by the United Nations in 1993, this holiday reminds us that family builds community and connection.
What does Family Mean?
Traditionally, in Western culture, family has been defined as something similar to the nuclear family consisting of a two-parent household with their children. However, over time and worldwide, the definitions of family have come to mean various things. From single-parent homes, chosen families, multigenerational households, co-parenting setups, and global family friendships, family means something different to each person. Each of these diverse meanings of the family is a beautiful form of love and connection.
Family systems also differ on each continent, country, and region. For example, in some Asian and Latin American countries, extended families often live together. This might include grandparents, parents, children, and sometimes other relatives, reflecting the importance of familial bonds and support. African and many Indigenous societies often emphasize communal living and collective child-rearing. The family unit can extend beyond immediate relatives to include community members, with a focus on shared responsibilities and resources.
How can you celebrate?
- Spend quality time with your loved ones. Reconnect with each other, share a meal, and go on a walk. Do something meaningful!
- Start a conversation about what family means to you and family values.
- Support a family-focused cause. Volunteer or donate to organizations helping families in need. Local organizations are often easy to find and looking for help! Here are a few international organizations as well:
- Share what family means to you, photos of your family, or what you’re doing to celebrate the day, and tag @FriendshipForceInternational on your Facebook or Instagram page!
Whatever family means to you, the essence of this day remains the same: mutual support, connection, love, and care. And for the many of you who have met your “chosen family” on a Friendship Force journey, let this day serve as a reminder that love can transcend language, culture, and geography.
Note: All translations are AI-assisted translations. We appreciate your understanding of any slight inaccuracies.