All - Leep Calendar

Today is the anniversary of the hearing to determine if Israel conducted genocide against the Palestinian people in 2023 and 2024. In a significant development in international law, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), located at the Peace Palace in The Hague, will conduct public hearings on January 11 and 12, 2024, in answer to the proceedings instituted by South Africa against Israel on December 29, 2023, concerning alleged violations of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Genocide Convention). The heart of South Africa's Application is a request to indicate provisional measures. This request aims to prevent "further, severe and irreparable harm to the rights of the Palestinian people under the Genocide Convention" and to ensure Israel's compliance with its obligations under the same Convention. South Africa presents its oral argument on January 11, with Israel responding on January 12. Each country will have two hours. The ICJ, established in June 1945 and starting its activities in April 1946, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. Composed of 15 judges elected for a nine-year term by the UN General Assembly and the Security Council, the Court's primary roles are to settle legal disputes submitted by States and provide advisory opinions on legal questions referred by authorized United Nations organs and agencies. This case marks a pivotal moment in applying international law, especially concerning the Genocide Convention. The world's eyes will be on The Hague as these proceedings unfold, potentially setting a precedent in international legal standards and state accountability. The application submitted by South Africa asserts the state of Israel is currently conducting genocide against the people of Palestine and that it is committing acts against the Palestinian people that it characterizes as genocidal. The application explicitly addresses actions by the Israeli government and military in response to attacks that occurred in Israel on October 7, 2023. South Africa, while condemning all violations of international law, including attacks on Israeli civilians and hostage-taking by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups, maintains that such events do not justify or excuse breaches of the 1948 Genocide Convention. The application argues that Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip seek the destruction of a substantial part of the Palestinian population, which constitutes a distinct national, racial, and ethnical group. The alleged genocidal acts include: Killings. Causing serious bodily and mental harm to Palestinians in Gaza. Creating conditions of life that could lead to their physical destruction. South Africa accuses Israel of not only failing to prevent genocide but also actively committing it, thereby violating the Genocide Convention. The application also notes Israel's failure to prevent or punish incitement to genocide by senior officials and others, highlighting a breach of fundamental obligations under the Genocide Convention. Another key assertion in the application is the context of the ongoing actions against the Palestinians by the state of Israel. The South Africans note that this is not a one-off event. Rather, it is part of 75 years of increasing repression, subjugation, attacks, and imprisonment of a people due to their religion. CONSEQUENCES OF A FINDING OF GENOCIDE Should the Court produce a finding of genocide, all signatories to The Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, including the United States, which is currently aiding and abetting Israel's actions, and the state of Israel are duty-bound to stop the action by any means. It will mean several leaders in Israel who have actively promoted genocide can be prosecuted for their crimes and prevented from traveling to many nations. The nation-state itself will forever be associated with genocide. The term genocide was coined during WWII to describe the wholesale destruction of Jewish, Romani, and other peoples by the Third Reich through the holocaust. The Convention was created and agreed to by 154 nations to ensure such wholesale murder never occurs again. Genocide is the highest crime any country or individual can be accused of. It is the worst of the worst.

Africa

Jan

Heritage Treasures Day (UK): January 11

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Heritage Treasures Day, annually commemorated in the United Kingdom, is an initiative of the Heritage Fund UK. Its creation emerged from a deep-seated appreciation for the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the United Kingdom and has become a vital part of the nation's calendar. The awareness event preserves and accentuates the diverse historical assets of the country, whether in the arts, buildings, geography, or natural history. Heritage Fund, renowned for its stewardship in safeguarding heritage sites, recognized the necessity of a dedicated day to raise public awareness and encourage engagement with the nation's historical treasures. The purpose of Heritage Treasures Day is to serve as a poignant reminder of the United Kingdom's multifaceted heritage, ranging from historic buildings and monuments to natural landscapes and intangible cultural traditions. Heritage refers to more than buildings. It includes writers like William Shakespeare and Robert Burns, artists JMW Turner and Francis Bacon, and even entertainers like The Beatles. Seven of the United Kingdom's best-known heritage treasures include: 1. Stonehenge—Wiltshire, England. Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument famed for its ring of standing stones and a symbol of mystery and ancient history. 2. The Tower of London—River Thames in central London. Historically, it was a castle, prison, palace, or treasury; today, it houses the Crown Jewels and is a top tourist destination due to its rich, albeit sometimes gruesome, history. 3. Edinburgh Castle—Edinburgh, Scotland. This historic fortress witnessed many of the defining events of Scottish history. 4. The Roman Baths—Bath, England. The Roman Baths are a well-preserved ancient site and provide a unique insight into life during Roman-occupied Britain. 5. The British Museum—London. Created during the reign of Queen Victoria, this world-renowned museum houses a vast collection of world art and artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. 6. Canterbury Cathedral—Canterbury, England. Established in 597 AD, the cathedral is renowned for its stunning architecture. It has been a pilgrimage site since the Middle Ages and is part of a World Heritage Site. 7. The Lake District—Northwest England. The Lake District is known for its picturesque lakes, forests, mountains, cultural landscape, and inclusion in the writings of William Wordsworth, Richard Adams, and Beatrix Potter. Heritage Treasures Day typically involves educational workshops, guided tours, and exhibitions showcasing the United Kingdom's heritage.

Africa

Jan

Human Trafficking, Wear Blue Day: January 11

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The Blue Campaign is the unified voice for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) efforts to combat human trafficking. Working in collaboration with law enforcement, government, non-governmental and private organizations, the Blue Campaign strives to protect the fundamental right of freedom and to bring those who exploit human lives to justice. Through the Blue Campaign, DHS raises public awareness about human trafficking, leveraging partnerships to educate the public to recognize human trafficking and report suspected instances. The Blue Campaign also offers training to law enforcement and others to increase the detection and investigation of human trafficking, protect victims, and bring suspected traffickers to justice. To view all available Blue Campaign resources, please visit our resources page. DHS is responsible for investigating human trafficking, arresting traffickers, and protecting victims. DHS also provides immigration relief to non-U.S. citizen victims of human trafficking. DHS utilizes a victim-centered approach to combat human trafficking, placing equal value on identifying and stabilizing victims and investigating and prosecuting traffickers. Victims are crucial to investigations and prosecutions; each case and every conviction changes lives. DHS understands how difficult it can be for victims to come forward and work with law enforcement due to their trauma. DHS is committed to helping victims feel stable, safe, and secure.

Africa

Jan

Independence Day (MA)(1944): January 11

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Independence Day in Morocco commemorates January 11, 1944, when the Independence Party dispatched a memo to the Allied powers seeking independence from French colonial rule. Morocco achieved it in 1956.

Africa

Jan

Learn Your Name in Morse Code Day (1838): January 11

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On January 11, 1838, Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail made their first public demonstration of the electric telegraph using a dot and dash language known today as Morse Code.

Africa

Jan

Milk Bottle and Milkman Day, Ntl. (1878): January 11

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National Milk Bottle & Milkman Day commemorates the first home milk deliveries by a 'milkman' on January 11, 1878, by the New York Dairy Company. The service no longer exists. 'Honey, can you pick up milk on your way home?' is a familiar request in households. So ordinary that supermarkets and convenience stores purposely put milk at the back of their stores, hoping people will have impulse purchases as they browse. One could argue that companies like Fresh Direct and Amazon have become the gig-economy milkmen.

Africa

Jan

Missionary Day (IN-MZ)(1894): January 11

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On January 11, 1894, two Welsh Christian missionaries, Rev JH Lorrain and Rev FW Savidge arrived in the Indian state of Mizoram, where the reverends established India's Presbyterian and Baptist churches. Each year the anniversary of their arrival is celebrated as a state holiday in this predominantly Christian region of India.

Africa

Jan

National Unity Day (NP)(1723): January 11

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National Unity Day celebrates the birthday of Prithivi Narayan Shah (1723-1775), the last ruler of the Gorkha kingdom and the first monarch of the Kingdom of Nepal. He is responsible for unifying the tribes into one nation. National Unity Day is a national holiday.

Africa

Jan

Puddle Splash Your Friends Day: January 11

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Puddle splashing on a friend or a stranger is an incorrigible prank unless you do it today! Puddle Splash Your Friends Day is a day for mischief, just like April's Fools (but with less creativity involved).

Africa

Jan

Clean Off Your Desk Day, Ntl.: January 12

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National Clean Off Your Desk Day encourages people to organize their desks and office space. How many mystery piles do you have? When was the last time you saw the bottom of a drawer? Has your inbox ever gone down, or does it keep growing and growing? These are all signs that it is time to clean off your desk. And now, you have a holiday as an excuse on the second Monday of January each year. Get to it! Created by AC Vierow of Clio, Michigan, who founded International Goof-off Day in March, Blame Someone Else Day, and National Boss-Employee Exchange Day.

Africa

Jan

Coming-of-Age Day (JP): January 12

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For all the children who reach the age of 20 during the previous year, Seiji-no-hi or Coming-of-Age Day is their national holiday. In Japan, people officially reach adulthood at the age of twenty. Seiji-no-hi allows society to welcome each year's new adults to the freedoms and responsibilities that come with reaching the majority. Annually on the second Monday in January.

Africa

Jan

Plough (Plow) Monday (UK): January 12

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Epiphany has passed, closing out the Twelve days of Christmas for another year. On the Monday following Epiphany, it's back to work and time to plow the fields for this year's crop. Plows are blessed, parades are held, and farmers go back to work in England.

Africa

Jan

Curried Chicken Day, Ntl: January 12

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The Tamil word 'Kari' is the origin of the word 'curry' in English, a southeast Asia spice blend of cumin, turmeric, coriander, and often peppers, added to coconut milk or stock base. It's mixed with meat, in this case, chicken, and served over rice or with naan bread. There are many different combinations of curry, and Curried Chicken Day is your opportunity to discover them.

Africa

Jan

Falling Ice Safety Day: January 12

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WINTER'S HIDDEN THREAT: FALLING ICE SAFETY DAY Every winter, icicles and falling ice present a grave, yet often underestimated, danger. While they may enhance the wintry scenery, the risks they pose are significant and sometimes fatal. In the United States, falling ice and icicles kills an average of fifteen people a year and cause far more injures, particularly in areas prone to harsh winter conditions.The injuries are often caused by large, heavy icicles breaking off from roofs and overhangs or by blocks of ice sliding off tall buildings. Madison Worldwide launched Falling Ice Safety Day in 2018 to bring attention to this danger. Homeowners should knock icicles down, and pedestrians must avoid buildings with hanging icicles. A single icicle can weigh over 30-40 pounds; if it falls on your head, it can kill you. Hanging ice is most common in regions that experience significant snowfall, followed by periods of thawing and refreezing. The Midwest, Northeast, and Northern states such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, New York, and Michigan are particularly vulnerable. With their tall buildings and fluctuating winter temperatures, cities like Chicago, Boston, and New York City often see an increased risk of falling ice. In these urban areas, ice can accumulate on skyscrapers and other structures, making the streets below potentially dangerous. Preventing injuries from falling ice requires both awareness and caution. Here are some crucial steps: —Avoid Walking Near Buildings After a Thaw: Be mindful of walking near the edges of buildings, especially after a thaw followed by freezing temperatures. Ice can dislodge suddenly and fall from a significant height. —Look Up and Stay Alert: When walking where icicles or ice might form, especially after snowstorms or during melting periods, keep an eye on overhead ledges, gutters, and eaves. —Use Caution in Parking: Avoid parking under buildings or other structures where icicles are visibly hanging or where ice buildup is evident. —Remove Icicles: Property owners should regularly remove icicles from roofs and overhangs, using professional services if necessary to avoid the risk of injury. When removing icicles, it's important to use the right tools and techniques to prevent them from falling on people or property below. —Warning Signs: Pay attention to any warning signs or cordoned-off areas that indicate a potential risk of falling ice. If you notice any potential hazards, such as large icicles or ice buildup, report them to the relevant authorities immediately to help prevent accidents. While winter's beauty is undeniable, the dangers of falling ice serve as a stark reminder to remain cautious and vigilant during the cold months. Taking the necessary precautions can significantly reduce the risk of injury from this hidden hazard.

Africa

Jan

Feast of Fabulous Wild, Extreme and Extraordinary Men Day: January 12

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Are you an authentic male of the species? Are you fabulous? Do you like to do 'wild' things? If you answered 'YES' to these questions, congratulations, January 12th is your day! Although we are unsure what the 'feast' part of this day is, enjoy it!

Africa