Celebrations are an important part of
every culture. They provide a tradition and a common bond to
be shared among those who make up their culture, permitting
them to experience a meaningful connection to one another
and to the principles to which they subscribe.
Unfortunately, most celebrations are based on ancient
traditions that are relevant to only a specific country or
culture, and they have often been, and continue to be, the
source of serious conflicts.
At this juncture in history, the world has become so small and
interdependent that we need a Global Celebration to promote a common
bond among all people. The Darwin Day Celebration was founded on
the premise that science, like music, is an international language
that speaks to all people in very similar ways. While music is both
intellectual and entertaining, science is our most reliable knowledge
system, and it has been and continues to be acquired through human
curiosity and ingenuity. Moreover, evolution via genetic variation
and natural selection, introduced by Darwin, has become the central
organizing principle in biology. In addition, evolution also plays a
central role in astronomy and cosmology, where it refers to the way
that stars, galaxies and the entire universe 'change over time.'
To study biology while neglecting evolution would be like
studying physics without Newton's laws that govern the universe or
chemistry without the periodic table. Clearly, Darwin himself
has become an internationally acclaimed figure, whose influence on
progressive modern thought continues to be both profound and pervasive
(Ernst Mayr,
Darwin's Influence on Modern Thought, Scientific American, July
2000).
Current research in the field of
genetics, including that on the human genome, has
conclusively shown that all humans are essentially identical
and that we are genetically related to all other living
things on this planet. Thus an enlightened view of genetics
is one of unity and equality among all humans and also one
that fosters a deeper sense of respect and appreciation for
all life. Today the validity of Darwin's theory of evolution
by natural selection rests in our understanding of the
molecular mechanisms of genetics. Therefore, we conclude
that Charles Darwin is a worthy symbol on which to focus, in
order to build a Global Celebration of Science and Humanity
that is intended to promote a common bond between all people
of the earth.

For statements and essays supporting the celebration of Darwin,
Science, and Humanity, take a look at our
Essays Section
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The following prominent
scientists, educators, philosophers, and writers support our
efforts to celebrate science and humanity: