UN ACTIONS
"Racist practices hurt their victims, but they also limit the promise of entire societies where they are tolerated. They prevent individuals from realizing their potential and stop them from contributing fully to national progress.”
Ban Ki-moon
United Nations Secretary-General
Ban Ki-moon
United Nations Secretary-General
The Legacy of Sharpeville
March 21st ist the United Nation's International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The date was established as a means to commemorate the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre where 69 anti-Apartheid protestors were killed by government forces. As stated in resolution 2142 (XXI), the United Nations reaffirmed its position that racism was:
"a serious impediment to economic and social development and are obstacles to international co-operation and peace."
The A Sense of Belonging project, as a part of the UNA-Canada's philosophy of promoting the values and principles of the UN in a Canadian Context, shares this view that discriminatory behaviours inhibit the progress of Canadian society.
Other Links
Department of Canadian Heritage
Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights