International Widows’ Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Widows and Widowhood

On December 21, 2010, the United Nations General Assembly designated June 23 as International Widows Day. However, the Loomba Foundation had already observed International Widows Day since 2005.

The United Nations has designated June 23 as International Widows Day, a special day dedicated to addressing the destitution and injustice faced by millions of widows and their dependents. Did you know that widowhood is more prevalent than you may believe? Yes, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 13 million Americans have lost a spouse, with over 11 million of them being women. Losing a spouse is never easy, so on International Widows Day, let’s take a stand to raise awareness about the plight of widows around the globe.

The background of International Widows’ Day

On December 21, 2010, the United Nations General Assembly designated June 23 as International Widows Day. However, the Loomba Foundation had already observed International Widows Day since 2005. Rajinder Loomba, a member of the House of Lords in the United Kingdom, established the Loomba Foundation to address widowhood issues in developing nations. Rajinder was motivated to establish this foundation after observing his mother’s struggles when she became a widow at the age of 37 in 1954. In the five years following its 2005 launch, the Loomba Foundation lead a global campaign for United Nations recognition. In response, the United Nations General Assembly adopted International Widows Day as an annual Global Day of Action by a vote of 95-0.

As losing a loved one in any capacity is difficult and traumatic, this day seeks to ensure that widows all over the world receive the necessary support to endure this incredibly trying time. As a result of the fact that, in many countries, individuals, particularly widows, are denied the right to an inheritance. There are also cultures in various regions of the world that view widows as cursed or as being associated with witchcraft. This incorrect perspective divides them from their community and even their offspring.

While no one wishes to contemplate the death of their spouse in the future, it is essential for all of us to plan for unfortunate and unforeseen events, and most importantly, to assist those in need.

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