International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
What is International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination?
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination was first proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1966 to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination. It educates people on the negative consequences racial discrimination has to promote action and awareness.
This day is observed annually on the 21st of March. A reminder of the Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa in 1960 at a peaceful demonstration against the apartheid “pass laws”.
How is International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination Celebrated?
The UN meet and hold events in the effort to eliminate Racial Discrimination. Events take place globally, often hearing from Keynote speakers who remind everyone of their obligation to speak up against racism.
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and Employment
This day aims to combat Racism and Racial Discrimination. Employers can join the fight and support their employees by:
- Adopting zero tolerance to Racism
- Empowering victims or witnesses of Racism or Racist behaviour to report it.
- Providing Race and Unconscious Bias training to all employees
- Demonstrating commitment to Race Equality and working towards race equality in the workplace
- Implementing solutions to drive change
- Updating/Reviewing policies and procedures to ensure they are inclusive
- Reviewing recruitment practices to eliminate bias and discrimination
- Holding events and activities through employee networks / ERGs
- Carrying out a short survey or focus groups to get employee feedback
