International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 2024

Every year on March 21, people all over the world observe the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. This special day has its roots in a sad event that happened in 1960 in Sharpeville, South Africa. On that day, 69 peaceful protesters were shot by the police for standing up against unfair laws. In response to this terrible event, the United Nations declared March 21 as a day to focus on stopping racial discrimination globally. The goal is to get countries to work together to end all kinds of unfair treatment. In 2021, the theme was “Youth standing up against racism,” and people used the hashtag #FightRacism to talk about fighting against racial prejudice and promoting fairness.

Download Free February 2024 BOLT PDF (Current Affairs)

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 2024 Theme

The 2024 International Day theme focuses on “A Decade of Recognition, Justice, and Development: Implementation of the International Decade for People of African Descent”.

This phrase describes the central theme of the 2024 International Day, emphasizing the implementation of initiatives aimed at recognizing, ensuring justice, and fostering development for individuals of African descent over the span of a decade, in alignment with the goals of the International Decade for People of African Descent.

History of International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Looking Back at Racism

The story of racism goes way back in American history. It’s tied to the ideas of race, racism, and slavery. The word “race” was first used in the 1500s to identify people. Now, it’s linked to ideas that either give or take away special treatment from certain groups. In places like America, the concept of race has been used to treat some groups unfairly, especially when justifying making people work against their will.

How the Idea of ‘White’ Changed

Between 1550 and 1600, the term ‘white’ was only for elite English women. But by 1613, it included all English people when compared to East Indians during colonizing. The early 1600s marked the start of African American slavery when the first Africans were brought to America for forced work. As time passed, racism spread globally, making African Americans seem less important than whites.

Racism in the 1990s: Eugenics Movement

In the 1990s, there was a movement called eugenics, which meant encouraging certain people to have babies while stopping others. Another idea, ‘Aryanism,’ said that Indo-European language speakers were better than others, especially white people. Sadly, these ideas are still around today.

Significance of International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Stopping Discrimination Together

This day tells us to stand up against racial prejudice, unfairness, and treating people badly. It’s a strong message to create a world where everyone is treated equally and with respect.

Encouraging People to Speak Up for Their Rights

No matter our race or color, we are all the same. This day reminds us to know and speak up for our rights. It tells us to stand against anything that’s not fair or just.

Building Peace and Respect

To make a better and united world, we must focus on treating everyone with respect and fairness. This day reminds us how important peace and respect are for creating a world where everyone can live happily. By sharing this message, we help in the effort to end racial discrimination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination promotes global unity, fairness, and respect to combat discrimination worldwide.

21st March 2024 Special Day

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21st represents a symbolic timing for human rights advocates worldwide to manifest optimism by honoring past trailblazers while working ambitiously towards racial justice everywhere. As the distinct calendar date approaches, championing groups across borders come together, united by the goal to continue spreading awareness about inequality stemming from the terrible events of Sharpeville, South Africa in 1960. The early arrival of 2024’s special day will be the perfect opportunity to set aspirational antiracism targets, recalibrate laws and policies, and rekindle hope for a future of dignity and opportunity regardless of racial identity. The occasion presents a chance to ignite worldwide momentum for positive change by having every stakeholder band together to demand action – just as the youth leading movements like #FightRacism.

Priti Palit

Priti Palit, an accomplished edtech writer, boasts a wealth of experience in preparing candidates for multiple government exams. With a passion for education and a keen eye for detail, she has contributed significantly to the field of online learning. Priti’s expertise and dedication continue to empower aspiring individuals in their pursuit of success in government examinations.

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