International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Dear colleagues and friends,
The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on March 21, the day the police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against apartheid "pass laws" in 1960. By proclaiming the International Day in 1966, the United Nations General Assembly called on the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination (resolution 2142 (XXI)).
In 1979, the General Assembly adopted a programme of activities to be undertaken during the second half of the Decade for Action to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination. On that occasion, the General Assembly decided that a week of solidarity with the peoples struggling against racism and racial discrimination, beginning on 21 March, would be organized annually in all States.
Since then, the apartheid system in South Africa has been dismantled. Racist laws and practices have been abolished in many countries, and we have built an international framework for fighting racism, guided by the International Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The Convention is now nearing universal ratification.
Still, in all regions of the world, too many individuals, communities and societies continue to suffer from the injustice and stigma that racism brings. Let’s stand up against racial prejudice and intolerant attitudes. Be a human rights champion, fight racism and stand up for human rights!
We all have an important role to play in denouncing and preventing racism and discrimination, whether online, on our streets, or in our workplaces.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions, suggestions, or comments.
Stay safe, stay well!
Respectfully,
Waheed Khan
President, National Consultation Team