Today, on March 21, YWCA Toronto recognizes the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. This day is observed annually on March 21 to commemorate the lives lost in Sharpeville, South Africa, where, in 1960, police shot and killed 69 peaceful anti-apartheid demonstrators. Originally, declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 1966, this day continues to raise awareness across the globe of this tragic massacre and urges action against all forms of racial discrimination and injustice. 60 years later, the importance of this international day remains paramount, particularly as the rights and safety of Black and Indigenous communities are under attack at unprecedented levels locally and globally.
It is no coincidence that this year’s theme recognizes the “60th anniversary of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms Racial of Discrimination (ICERD).” This anniversary of ICERD not only calls for reflection on progress made globally in the fight against racism and racial discrimination but also highlights ongoing challenges.
At YWCA Toronto, we understand that we are at a critical time in history, a time to reaffirm our commitment to racial justice and continue our efforts to combat all forms of racial discrimination, inequity and injustice in our communities. It is also a crucial time to continue reflecting on the legacies of slavery and colonialism on Turtle Island which are intrinsically tied to racial discrimination. These legacies endure and continue to impact the lives of Black, Indigenous and racialized communities through the systemic destruction of rights, restriction, violence and control of opportunities and access.
We recognize that there is still a lot of work to be done to realize racial justice but we also know that together, we can move towards a more just, peaceful and equitable world.
As we observe this significant day, it is crucial to reflect on the increasing backlash against human rights and the deepening injustices faced by racialized communities, especially in this time of heightened hate, injustice and inequality. With the collective efforts of our staff, community partners, donors, and all levels of government, we will continue to advocate for racial justice, ensuring this work is embedded in all that we do – from our programs to our advocacy. Our vision remains a radical transformation of society, one that ensures Black, Indigenous and racialized communities – including our participants, staff, and leadership – are valued and have equal opportunity and access to live safe, empowered lives.
We are also inspired by the work being done by our Anti-Black Racism Committee, Access and Equity Committee, and History Committee. They continue to engage, inform and educate while also creating more equitable and knowledgeable spaces within the Association.
Lastly, we have shared a post to commemorate this significant day on our social media platforms (LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook) that we encourage you to engage with by liking and sharing it.
Here are some additional resources to consider exploring today: