HERITAGE TREASURES DAY
Every year on January 11th, Heritage Treasures Day raises funds for iconic landmarks around the world. It’s also a day to share one’s heritage, preserve monuments, and conserve wildlife.
#HeritageTreasuresDay
What do you think of when you hear the word “heritage?” Do you think about traditions in your family that have been passed down from generation to generation? Maybe you think about famous monuments that represent our history. Others may view heritage as preserving or collecting old things.
No matter how heritage is defined, one thing is certain. Our heritage provides clues to our past. Heritage demonstrates the evolution of society. Studying our heritage helps us examine our history. It also helps to explain why we are the way we are.
So how exactly do we study our heritage? Here are some suggestions:
- Look at old photographs
- Volunteer for an excavation dig
- Begin a collection of old things, such as stamps or coins
- Visit your local museum
- Make a family tree
- Visit your family’s country of origin
It’s not just your own heritage you can study, however. To truly understand the world around you, study other people’s heritage as well.
HOW TO OBSERVE HERITAGE TREASURES DAY
On this day, the Heritage Lottery Fund in the UK encourages people around the world to connect with their heritage. They also promote the idea of sharing their heritage treasures with one another. These treasures might include a collection item, favorite museum, or significant photograph. Another thing people do on this day is visit iconic landmarks. Some of the most famous landmarks include Stonehenge, the Great Barrier Reef, Mount Rushmore, the Eiffel Tower, and Machu Picchu.
To participate in this day:
- Discuss with others what the word “heritage” means.
- Think about ways you can explore and preserve your heritage.
- Donate to an organization that preserves famous monuments.
- Plan a trip to an iconic landmark.
- Help your children learn about other cultures.
Spread awareness for this day on social media with #HeritageTreasuresDay
HERITAGE TREASURES DAY HISTORY
The Heritage Lottery Fund began this day on January 11th, 1994. Since its inception, the fund has donated over 8 billion pounds to 40,000 causes. Eight billion pounds is equivalent to nearly 11 billion dollars in U.S. funds!