Giving Tuesday

Official name	Giving Tuesday
Also called
Observed by	Various countries and communities worldwide
Liturgical color
Type	Cultural, philanthropic
Significance	A day dedicated to giving and charitable acts
Celebrations	Donations, fundraising events, community service
Observances
Begins

Giving Tuesday, often stylized as #GivingTuesday for purposes of hashtag activism, is an international day of charitable giving at the beginning of the Christmas and holiday season. The day is celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. It was initially created as a response to the commercialization and consumerism in the post-Thanksgiving season (Black Friday and Cyber Monday).

History

Giving Tuesday was first established in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y and its partner, the United Nations Foundation. The idea came from the nonprofit sector as a counterbalance to the consumer-focused Black Friday and Cyber Monday events. It was intended to provide people with an opportunity to give back to their community through donations of time, resources, and talents.

Impact

Since its inception, Giving Tuesday has grown significantly in popularity and impact. It has mobilized millions of people around the world to participate in charitable activities. The movement has helped raise substantial funds for charitable causes and nonprofit organizations. Each year, social media plays a crucial role in promoting Giving Tuesday events and initiatives, helping to increase awareness and participation globally.

Participation

Organizations and individuals participate in Giving Tuesday by promoting it on social media, organizing fundraising events, and encouraging donations. Many businesses and corporations also support the day by matching donations or by hosting their own charitable events.

Global Reach

Giving Tuesday has grown beyond the United States and is now observed in several other countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Australia, and more. Each country brings its own cultural nuances to the way they observe the day of giving.

Criticism

Despite its positive intentions, Giving Tuesday has faced criticism. Some argue that it promotes a one-day spike in donations, which doesn't solve the long-term challenges faced by many nonprofit organizations. Others believe it puts too much emphasis on online donations, potentially neglecting other forms of charitable engagement.

See Also

• Philanthropy
• Charity
• Nonprofit organization
• Social media activism

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