WEEK OF SOLIDARITY WITH THE PEOPLES STRUGGLING AGAINST RACISM AND RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
Beginning March 21st each year, the Week of Solidarity with the Peoples Struggling Against Racism and Racial Discrimination raises worldwide awareness. This week recognizes the importance of communities and nations to strive towards racial equality and tolerance. It’s a call for the abolishment of laws and practices that encourage racism as well.
The week begins with The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21st, recognizing a significant day in South African apartheid history. In 1960, peaceful demonstrators had gathered in Sharpeville concerning “pass laws” which controlled slave movements across the country. Police opened fire killing 69 people that day.
HOW TO OBSERVE
Read the original resolution that started the official observance. Be involved in your community and the decisions it makes with regards to discrimination. Learn about the influence of racism in different parts of the world, how it evolves and impacts populations.
HISTORY
In 1979, the United Nations General Assembly declared a Week of Solidarity with The Peoples Struggling Against Racism and Racial Discrimination beginning on 21 March. The first observance took place in 1980.