International Lefthanders Day 2024: History, Theme and Significance

13 August is observed annually as International Lefthanders Day. A day to appreciate the uniqueness and differences of left-handed individuals. The day was first observed in 1976 by Dean R. Campbell, founder of Lefthanders International, Inc.

History of International Lefthanders Day

International Lefthanders Day, observed annually on August 13th, is a celebration of this singularity. The genesis of this day can be traced back to 1976 when Dean R. Campbell, founder of Lefthanders International, Inc., established it to highlight the distinct experiences of left-handed individuals in a world predominantly designed for right-handers.

The day serves as a reminder of the subtle and overt ways society is oriented towards right-handedness, from the design of tools and machinery to the cultural associations with left-handedness. Historically, left-handers have faced their share of stigmatization, often being forced to adapt to right-handed norms. However, International Lefthanders Day is not just about the challenges; it’s a celebration of the unique talents and perspectives that left-handers bring to the table.

Over the years, the day has gained momentum, with various organizations and communities coming together to celebrate the achievements of left-handed individuals and advocate for more inclusive designs in everyday products. The Left-Handers Club, founded in 1990, has been instrumental in promoting the day and raising awareness about the needs of left-handers, particularly in the areas of education and ergonomics.

The theme of International Lefthanders Day 2024

13 August is observed annually as International Lefthanders Day. A day to appreciate the uniqueness and differences of left-handed individuals. There is no specific theme for the day.

Significance of International Lefthanders Day

International Left-Handers Day is a call to action for greater awareness, acceptance, and accommodation. It’s a day to reflect on diversity and the richness it brings to our collective human experience. As we recognize the significance of this day, we are reminded of the importance of embracing all forms of diversity, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their dominant hand, has the opportunity to thrive in our society. Celebrating this day helps to foster a more inclusive world where being left-handed is seen not as a hindrance but as a unique attribute that contributes to the tapestry of human diversity.

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Quick facts about Lefthanders

Here are quick facts about   Lefthanders:

• Around 10 percent of people worldwide are left-handed.
• Science confirms that Left-handed people are more intelligent and creative thinkers.
• Left-handers use the right side of their brain more, which makes them more inclined toward Art
• Lefties have better underwater vision than right-handed people
• The connection between the left and right sides of the brain is better in left-handers.
• Lefties are efficient at multitasking and also have a better memory compared to righties
• They are deemed to be more skilled in terms of language, left-handers are also considered to be better leaders.
• Lefties are also great at sports like baseball, players, tennis, swimming, boxing, and fencing.
• Lefties are more prone to migraines and sleep deprivation problems, however, they recover faster from injuries
• Left-handers also face a higher risk of insomnia, psychosis, and alcoholism

Human Rights Day and its Significance

 List of a few eminent personalities who are lefties

•  Mahatma Gandhi
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi
• Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong
• Former US presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama
• Prince WilliamMother Teresa
• Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar
• Actors Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth
• Industrialist Ratan Tata Scientist
• Sir Isaac Newton
• Painter Pablo Picasso
• French leader Napoleon Bonaparte
• Media personality Oprah Winfrey

International Left-handers Day: Struggles Faced by Left-Handers

• Finding a comfortable desk position: If you are a left-hander, you’ll know the difficulty of writing on a desk that really only works for a right-hander. The amount of time one spends on adjusting and trying to find the perfect angle.
• Handling household equipment: Most of the kitchen equipment and basic household tools such as Scissors, tweezers, and bottle openers are designed keeping right-handed people in mind. It is difficult to find a pair of scissors that works for a left-hander and doesn’t hurt their fingers. Even Computer keyboards and mice are right-hander friendly.
• Public transport: The ticket barriers at metro stations typically have the scanner on the right side. Therefore, a left-handed person, who might instinctively put their metro card or the coin towards the left, will simply open the gate for someone else.
• Elbow wars and being pushed to the far left: Left-handed people always have to be conscious about which side they want to sit on. When dining out with friends and family, they have to make sure that their elbows do not clash with someone else who is eating with their right hand, for which they prefer a seat in the far corner.

How to Observe International Lefthanders Day

To observe this day, you can start by wearing something red, the color of the left-handed flag, to show solidarity and raise awareness. Engage in activities using your left hand throughout the day to experience the world from a left-hander’s perspective. You can also attend community events or organize activities that celebrate left-handedness. Sharing information and stories about famous left-handed people on social media can inspire others and highlight the achievements of left-handers. Additionally, it’s a great opportunity to advocate for the availability of left-handed tools and products, making daily tasks more accessible for left-handed individuals.

International Lefthanders Day Observation Dates

International Left-Handers Day is a call to action for greater awareness, acceptance, and accommodation.

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