About International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is observed on 9 August. The UN General Assembly established it in 1994 to recognise indigenous communities, their rights, languages and knowledge, and their contribution to the world.
The United Nations General Assembly created this day in 1994. The date, 9 August, marks the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982.
Indigenous peoples live across the world and hold a great variety of languages, traditions and ways of caring for land and forests. Many communities also face challenges such as loss of land, threats to their languages and unequal access to services. The day recognises both their contributions and their rights.
How it is marked
The UN and cultural organisations hold discussions, film screenings and exhibitions featuring indigenous voices. Museums and universities host talks on traditional knowledge, languages and art. Schools may invite community members to share songs, stories and crafts.
In India, the day is widely celebrated by Adivasi communities as World Adivasi Day, or Vishwa Adivasi Diwas, especially in states such as Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and parts of the Northeast. Celebrations often include traditional dance, music, dress and gatherings that honour community heritage.
What to write
Write with respect, celebrate culture and identity, and avoid stereotypes or treating traditions as costumes.
- Wishing you a proud World Adivasi Day. Save me a place in the dance circle this year.
- Thank you for teaching us how to live with the land and not just on it.
- Thank you for teaching our class the Santali words for rain and river. The children haven't stopped using them.
How to wish someone on International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
respect for indigenous cultures, languages and knowledge, and respect for each community's rights
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples on 9 August?
The date marks the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations, held on 9 August 1982. The UN General Assembly set the observance in 1994.
Is World Adivasi Day the same as the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples?
In India, many Adivasi communities celebrate 9 August as World Adivasi Day, or Vishwa Adivasi Diwas. It is the same date as the UN observance.
What should I avoid writing on this day?
Avoid stereotypes, words that describe communities as primitive, and treating traditional dress or rituals as props. Focus on respect, rights, culture and the community's own voice.
When is International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples in 2026?
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2026 falls on Sunday, 9 August 2026.
What is International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples?
The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is observed on 9 August. The UN General Assembly established it in 1994 to recognise indigenous communities, their rights, languages and knowledge, and their contribution to the world.
Is International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples?
Focus on respect for indigenous cultures, languages and knowledge, and respect for each community's rights. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .