April 22

Discovery Day in Brazil commemorates the landing of the Portuguese expedition led by Pedro Álvares Cabral on April 22, 1500. This event marked the beginning of Brazil’s history under European influence and the foundation for its multicultural heritage. Today, regional ceremonies and reenactments take place at coastal landmarks where the first explorers landed. Schools often host educational activities to discuss the historical context and its long-term effects on indigenous populations. The day fosters reflection on Brazil’s origins and the diverse identities that shape its national story.

Holocaust Remembrance Day in Serbia, observed on April 22, pays tribute to the Jewish and Roma victims who perished during World War II. Established by the Serbian government in 2013, the day features ceremonies at former concentration camp sites such as Sajmište. Memorial services, educational programs, and museum exhibitions help keep the memory of the atrocities alive. Survivors and their families often share testimonies to new generations. The observance reinforces the commitment to combat anti-Semitism and intolerance in modern society.

Since 2018, April 22 in the United Kingdom honors the memory of Stephen Lawrence, a Black teenager murdered in a racially motivated attack in 1993. The day marks the launch of initiatives to address systemic racism and support community cohesion. Events include educational workshops, memorial gatherings, and public talks highlighting the legacy of the MacPherson report into the Metropolitan Police’s handling of the case. It serves as a reminder of the importance of equality and justice for all. Organizations use the day to promote dialogue on diversity and inspire positive societal change.