21 March 61st International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, observed annually on 21 March, commemorates the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960, when police in Sharpeville opened fire on a peaceful protest against apartheid pass laws, killing 69 people. Established by the United Nations General Assembly to raise awareness and encourage global action against racism, the observance reflects broader international efforts that have led to important progress, including the dismantling of apartheid in South Africa and the strengthening of global commitments to equality and non-discrimination, principles also affirmed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

In 1979, the General Assembly further strengthened international efforts by launching a programme of activities during the Decade for Action to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination, encouraging Member States to organize a week of solidarity with peoples fighting racism beginning on 21 March each year.

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