Darwin Day
Program Fact Sheet
What is Darwin
Day?
Darwin Day is an international celebration of
science and humanity as exemplified in the life, work and influence
of Charles Darwin. It is celebrated by people around the world who
value the adventurous spirit and natural curiousity that scientists
and explorers of all kinds share.
Who was Darwin?
Charles Darwin was a
naturalist who put forth the idea of evolution through natural
selection in his book, The Origin of Species by Means of Natural
Selection. This book revolutionized how we think about our world
and our selves. Darwin's work symbolizes wonder, curiosity,
exploration and the quest for knowledge and understanding. His life
exemplifies humane qualities such as kindness, consideration,
tolerance, reflective thought, and appreciation for the
similarities, as well as the diversity, among us.
What are the major goals of the Darwin Day
Program?
The goals of the Darwin Day program are to
increase the number of celebrations held around the world; to
educate others about Charles Darwin and the theory of evolution by
natural selection; and to promote understanding of science and
critical inquiry within our global community.
Who participates in Darwin Day
celebrations?
Everyone is encouraged to participate in
annual Darwin Day events. Celebrations are held all around the
world.. Participating outlets include bookstores, universities,
middle- and high-school classes, museums, zoos, activist
organizations and many others. Activities range from large, formal
programs to fun and informal gatherings among
science-enthusiasts.
Is Darwin Day an anti-religious
celebration?
No. Although the theory of evolution
continues to be misinterpreted as a threat to religious belief,
Darwin Day itself does not promote religion or non-religion and
especially not anti-religion. Groups, organizations, and individuals
of all religious flavors, or lack thereof, are invited to
participate in Darwin Day and the celebration of science and
humanity.
Where does the Darwin Day Program receive its
funding?
The Darwin Day Program and website were made
possible through the generous donation of Dr. Robert J. Stephens, a
cell-biologist who co-founded a Darwin Day celebration in the
Northern California area in the early 1990s and who serves as Chair
on the Darwin Day Program's Board of Directors. Several
organizations have also donated materials to the program and grant
funding is being sought for larger projects.
For more information, please contact Darwin Day
Program Directors at mailto:info@darwinda.org or
visit the Darwin Day website at http://www.darwinday.org/ | |
