International Albinism Awareness Day
Next: June 13, 2027
Proud in every shade of skin.
The story
Where it comes from
On 13 June 2013 the UN Human Rights Council adopted its first resolution on attacks and discrimination against people with albinism, a rare inherited condition that leaves little or no pigment in the skin, hair and eyes. In June 2014 the Council called for an international day, and on 18 December 2014 the UN General Assembly proclaimed 13 June International Albinism Awareness Day (resolution 69/170). It was first observed in 2015, as a day to celebrate the achievements of people with albinism and to stand against the prejudice many still face.
How it's celebrated
The UN and organisations of people with albinism share stories, challenge myths and press for what protects health most: regular skin and eye checks, sunscreen, sunglasses and sun-protective clothing. For everyone else it is a day to learn the facts, and to remember that people with albinism have the same talents and ambitions as anyone.
Did you know
- Albinism occurs in every country and every ethnic group, and in almost all types both parents must carry the gene, even if they do not have albinism themselves.
- The Malian singer Salif Keita, known as the 'Golden Voice of Africa', was born with albinism and set up a foundation in 2005 to raise awareness of it.
- Hong Kong-born Connie Chiu, known as the world's first fashion model with albinism, began modelling at 24 with the designer Jean-Paul Gaultier and is a champion of the UN's albinism awareness campaign.
Coming up next
- World Blood Donor Day · June 14, 2027
- Global Wind Day · June 15, 2027
- Bloomsday · June 16, 2027
- International Day of Family Remittances · June 16, 2027
- Desertification and Drought Day · June 17, 2027
- Sustainable Gastronomy Day · June 18, 2027