World Hello Day

What Is World Hello Day?

November 21st is "World Hello Day." It was created in response to the Yom Kippur War between Egypt and Israel in the autumn of 1973. The idea is that by greeting ten people on this day, we can send world leaders the message that dialogue is better than conflict.

Sending a Message of Peace by Greeting Ten People

World Hello Day was proposed and promoted by Dr. Brian McCormack and Michael McCormack of Arizona State University in the United States. It is based on the belief that personal communication between individuals is essential to preserving peace.

• Trigger: the Yom Kippur War in autumn 1973
• Founders: Dr. Brian McCormack and Michael McCormack of Arizona State University
• How to take part: greet ten people on this day
• Reach: the activity has spread to 180 countries
• Message: to world leaders: "dialogue rather than conflict"

A Day Anyone Can Join, Starting Today

What makes World Hello Day special is that it needs no preparation and anyone can take part right away. All you have to do is say hello to the people around you. It reflects the idea that even big problems between nations ultimately begin with communication between people. November 21st is also "World Television Day," established by the United Nations.

Tips for Marking This Day

• When you arrive at work, greet ten people a little more cheerfully than usual
• Say hello to someone from a department you rarely talk to
• Greet the people you meet in the elevator or at reception
• Send a short message to a friend you haven't contacted in a while

A Small "Hello" Is the First Step Toward Dialogue

A greeting is the simplest form of communication anyone can offer. November 21st is a day to brighten your workplace and surroundings a little, starting with saying hello to ten people.