Unity in Diversity: International Day for Racial Tolerance

Racial discrimination:

International Convention implies the definition of racial discrimination as any kind of discrimination, preference, distinction, or exclusion that is based on color, descent, race, ethnicity, or national origin that affects fundamental public rights. [1]

A few negative outcomes of racism include:

Impact on mental health, causing triggers of chronic stress, anxiety, and depression
Negative events in life such as unemployment, poverty, and abuse
Affects self-esteem causing tarnished self-worth, and leading to PTSD symptoms [5]

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination:

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination also known as Human Rights Day in South Africa is a Public Holiday. The day is observed on the 21^st of March and is aimed at commemorating the Sharpeville Massacre in which 69 people were massacred during a peaceful march in South Africa in 1960. In the tragic event, 69 people were killed and 180 were injured including children as the police opened fire on a peaceful march of people against apartheid “pass laws” [2] [3]

March 21st is a day to remember those who have died in the battle against racial prejudice and to raise awareness of all forms of racism around the world. The UN General Assembly resolution 2142 (XXI), adopted on October 26, 1966, designated March 21 as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, to be observed every year. [4]

2024 Theme: A Decade of Recognition, Justice, and Development

“A Decade of Recognition, Justice, and Development: Implementation of the International Decade for People of African Descent” is the theme for the 2024 International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. [2]

The theme for this year is associated with the International Decade for People of African Descent which goes from the year 2015 until 2024. With this proclamation, the international community acknowledges that people of African descent are a distinct group and their human rights must be promoted and maintained. [2]

Moreover, in the last few years, the theme of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination has been focusing on several aspects of tackling and eradicating racism promoting tolerance, acknowledging contributions from various communities, and addressing discrimination.

The fight against racial discrimination is an ongoing global challenge that needs the dedication of all sectors of society, including governments, institutions, communities, and individuals, to create a world in which everyone, regardless of race or ethnicity, has equal opportunities and is treated with dignity and respect.