International Race Relations Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about International Race Relations Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. International Race Relations Day is observed on March 21st.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of International Race Relations Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you need know about International Race Relations Day.

📅 What day is International Race Relations Day 2024?

In 2024, International Race Relations Day is on Tuesday, March 21st. It is the 3rd Tuesday in March; in 2024, it is Thursday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all intriguing details and facts about March 21, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

International Race Relations Day is observed on March 21 to remember the Sharpeville Massacre that occurred in 1960. This event was a peaceful protest against South Africa’s Apartheid Pass Laws, but unfortunately resulted in the deaths of at least 69 black South Africans, including 10 children. “Time” magazine described the Pass Laws as oppressive measures. In response to this tragedy, the United Nations General Assembly called upon the global community to collaborate and prevent similar devastating incidents from happening again.

📜 International Race Relations Day History

According to the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s findings in 1998, a massacre occurred where police fired at unarmed protesters against Apartheid laws, resulting in deaths and injuries to nearly 300 people. The abolishment of apartheid in South Africa took place 34 years later, and similar racist practices have been eliminated in various countries worldwide. In 2001, a World Conference Against Racism was held in Durban, South Africa, where world leaders came together to sign a statement calling for action against racism and xenophobia.

However, discrimination still persists in many places, highlighting the importance of celebrating cultural diversity. Nowadays, educational institutions in the United States prioritize diversity in their selection process. In 2021, governments and organizations will gather to evaluate progress made in combating racism since the 2001 conference. Michelle Bachelet, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, stressed the need for global cooperation in addressing racial hatred.

✅ International Race Relations Day Facts

🔖 Racial prejudice is still prevalent
A survey conducted in 2018 revealed that a significant majority of police stops in New York City involved individuals who were either black or Latino. Out of these stops, almost 70% of these individuals were found to be completely innocent.

🔖 Significant social progress is taking place
During the early 1980s, only 43% of the American population supported interracial marriages. However, as of 2021, the percentage of Americans who approved of such unions had significantly increased to 79%.

🔖 Widely observed in New Zealand
In 2003, New Zealand observed International Race Relations Day for the very first time. The theme chosen was “Hands Up for Kiwis of Every Race and Place.”

👍 Why Is International Race Relations Day Important

This day allows us to pause and reflect on our progress toward a more racially diverse and inclusive world. It’s an opportunity to reflect on past injustices and how we can avoid them in the future.

International Race Relations Day serves as a reminder to celebrate and value the diversity of our collective cultural experiences. It’s an ideal opportunity to meet someone from a different cultural background.

International Race Relations Day promotes the acceptance of cultural diversity. It gives people a sense of belonging and allows them to be comfortable with themselves.

🙂 How To Observe International Race Relations Day

⚡ Inform others

⚡ Be mindful of racist comments
In the past, we may have made casual remarks about someone’s skin color or nationality based solely on their appearance. It is important for us to now be more mindful and considerate of our words and actions towards others.

⚡ Dive into the history of racism
Enlighten everyone you know who is unaware of the significance of this day. This might be the starting point for making the world a better place.

📅 When is International Race Relations Day?

See all 🔗 March holidays, including 🔗 Cause and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

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