The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed each year on March 21st. Learn more about the history of this event on the United Nations website. The theme for the 2018 event is: Promoting tolerance, inclusion, unity and respect for diversity in the context of combating racial discrimination.
As stated on the UN website:
Every person is entitled to human rights without discrimination. The rights to equality and non-discrimination are cornerstones of human rights law. Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. And based on Article 2, everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in the Declaration, without distinction of race or any other kind.
Yet racism, xenophobia and intolerance are problems prevalent in all societies, and discriminatory practices are widespread, particularly targeting migrants and refugees as well as people of African descent.
States are urged to take comprehensive measures to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, and to promote tolerance, inclusion, unity and respect for diversity.
Every day, each and every one of us can stand up against racial prejudice and intolerant attitudes. In the lead-up to the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in December 2018, join us in fighting racism and standing up for human rights!
#StandUp4HumanRights #FightRacism
The AAA also has resources that you can use to discuss race in the classroom, in your home, and in your community. Visit our Understanding Race After Charlottesville page to access syllabi, readings, blog content, and more. The UN website also offers a collection of resources related to race and human rights.
