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International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 2021

Yesterday, many churches prayed for the end of racial discrimination around the world.

“The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on 21 March. On that day, in 1960, police opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa, against the apartheid pass laws. Proclaiming the day in 1966, the United Nations General Assembly called on the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination.”



 

YOUTH ARE STANDING AGAINST RACISM

This year, like every year as we mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on 21 March, we invite everyone, to join the youth around the globe who bring us closer to a culture of tolerance, equality and anti-discrimination by standing up against racial prejudice and intolerance.


Young people should be empowered to realise their rights to freedom of expression, assembly and access to information for they too have the right to participate in the life of the community.


Young people, including those from minority backgrounds who may face discrimination, deserve stronger support in securing decent work and strengthening their job prospects.


Young people have the right to learn about human rights and about human rights tools that can be used to fight against oppression, racism and discrimination.


We call on all decision-makers to empower these young people by giving them a seat at the table at the decision-making table.





Each year, the world commemorates the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on 21 March, the day the police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against apartheid "pass laws" in 1960. The theme for this year's commemoration is "Youth standing up against racism." Source: OHCHR


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