International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 2022

March 21, 2022

Sixty-two years ago, on March 21, 1960, police opened fire on a peaceful anti-apartheid demonstration outside Sharpsville, South Africa.

Sixty-nine people were killed. More than 180 were wounded.

The Sharpsville Massacre, as the event came to be known, gained worldwide attention. Calls for change echoed around the globe. In 1966, the United Nations declared March 21 the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, asking the global community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racism.

Much has changed since then. Yet, despite far-reaching and dedicated efforts, racism remains a reality around the world, and here at home. It continues to violate our human rights and divide society.

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is an occasion for people to stand together against those who seek to divide us and to renew our commitment to confront racism, hate and discrimination whenever – and whenever – we see it.

No country or community is immune.

In Saskatchewan, discriminatory behavior based on race or perceived race, ancestry, nationality and colour continues to deny people equality in important areas of their lives including employment, education, housing, and public services.

This is unacceptable. Change is required, and the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission has an important role to play in effecting that change. With increased emphasis on its public education initiatives, the Commission helps advance the principles of equality and diversity in this province. We remain dedicated to using education as a tool to encourage an understanding of, and appreciation for, human rights in our schools, businesses, and communities.

Education is the most powerful weapon we have to combat racism. Nobody is born hating another person because of the colour of their skin or their religious beliefs. People are taught to hate. That means they can also be taught to love. They can learn empathy, understanding, and respect.

Respect is essential. Not just respect for the similarities we share, but also the differences. It is our differences that make Saskatchewan a great place to live. Our provincial motto – “from many peoples, strength” – is more than just a saying. It has substance.

It denotes a powerful vision for our province.

It speaks to inclusiveness, diversity, and unity.

Unity, like education and respect, is fundamental in eliminating racial discrimination.

Together, we must work to repair the fissures and polarization we see in our society. We must understand the ways that racism, hatred, discrimination, and other forms of marginalization intersect and compound one another.  We must embrace diversity. And we must resolve to fight racism and discrimination in remembrance of those who have died standing up for their own and others people’s human rights.