National Mix It Up At Lunch Day

Group of people sitting together at a park picnic, wearing colorful summer outfits, diverse fashion styles, surrounded by delicious food.. — National mix it up at lunch day illustration

Welcome to National Mix It Up at Lunch Day, a day where we encourage everyone to break out of their social bubbles and mingle with people they might not normally eat lunch with. So pack your lunchbox and get ready for a day of connection and tasty treats!

When is Mix It Up At Lunch Day?

It's national mix it up at lunch day on the 23rd October.

The Origins of National Mix It Up at Lunch Day

Did you know that National Mix It Up at Lunch Day started as a way to break down the cliques and barriers that can form in schools? It was first organized by Teaching Tolerance, a project of the Southern Poverty Law Center, back in 2002. The idea was simple: to encourage students to sit with someone new during lunchtime, promoting inclusivity and friendships.

Since its inception, this special day has gained recognition and participation in schools across the nation. The belief is that when students connect with peers they might not usually interact with, it helps to create a positive and inclusive school environment.

How to Celebrate National Mix It Up at Lunch Day

Celebrating National Mix It Up at Lunch Day is easy and fun! Whether you're a student, parent, or teacher, you can participate in this special day by embracing diversity and creating a welcoming lunchtime experience.

Students can step out of their comfort zones by sitting with new people and striking up conversations. Shy? No worries! You can bring a game or a fun topic to break the ice.

Parents can support this day by packing an extra lunch for their child to share with a new friend. And teachers can organize mix-up activities during lunch, such as seat swapping or assigning random lunch buddies.

Did You Know?

Did you know that National Mix It Up at Lunch Day is not just limited to schools? Many workplaces and communities have embraced the spirit of this day as well, organizing mix-it-up events during lunch breaks. It's a fantastic way to foster camaraderie and strengthen relationships in any setting!

History behind the term 'Mix It Up At Lunch'

1969

The Birth of School Desegregation

In 1969, the term 'mix it up at lunch' began to emerge against the backdrop of school desegregation in the United States. During this time, schools across the nation were working towards racial integration, allowing students from different racial backgrounds to attend the same schools. The idea behind 'mix it up at lunch' was to encourage students of different races to interact with each other during lunchtime, breaking down racial barriers and fostering a more inclusive and tolerant school environment.

2002

Launch of 'Mix It Up at Lunch Day'

In 2002, Teaching Tolerance, a project of the Southern Poverty Law Center, officially launched 'Mix It Up at Lunch Day.' This annual event encourages students across the United States to exchange seats and intentionally sit with new classmates during lunchtime, promoting diversity, acceptance, and understanding. 'Mix It Up at Lunch Day' aims to combat stereotypes, cliques, and social divisions by fostering relationships among students from different social groups.

2012

40th Anniversary Celebration

In 2012, 'Mix It Up at Lunch Day' celebrated its 40th anniversary. Over the course of four decades, the program had grown significantly, with thousands of schools participating each year. Research conducted by Teaching Tolerance showed that schools participating in 'Mix It Up at Lunch Day' experienced positive changes in their social dynamics, resulting in reduced prejudice, increased empathy, and a more inclusive school climate.

Present

Continued Impact and Expansion

Today, 'mix it up at lunch' is not only recognized as a specific event but has become a broader term encompassing various initiatives and efforts to promote diversity and social integration in schools and other social settings. The concept has influenced discussions around the importance of breaking down social barriers, creating dialogue, and fostering understanding among individuals from different backgrounds. 'Mix it up at lunch' continues to inspire educators and community leaders to explore innovative ways to encourage inclusivity and celebrate diversity.