People of African descent focus of International Day For The Elimination Of Racial Discrimination

Racism is an evil infecting countries and societies around the world – a deeply entrenched legacy of colonialism and enslavement, said United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres.

“The results are devastating: opportunities stolen; dignity denied; rights violated; lives taken and lives destroyed,” he said in his message today to commemorate International Day For The Elimination Of Racial Discrimination.

“Racism is rife, but it impacts communities differently.”

The theme of this year's International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination – 'A Decade of Recognition, Justice, and Development: Implementation of the International Decade for People of African Descent' – highlights this.

“People of African descent face a unique history of systemic and institutionalised racism, and profound challenges today. We must respond to that reality – learning from, and building on, the tireless advocacy of people of African descent,” he said.

“That includes governments advancing policies and other measures to eliminate racism against people of African descent. And tech firms urgently addressing racial bias in artificial intelligence.”

Guterres urged everyone to commit to work together to build a world of dignity, justice and equal opportunity for every community, everywhere.

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed on the anniversary of the day – March 21, 1960 – that the police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against apartheid “pass laws”.

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