2018-03-21 Wed

Racial and ethnic discriminations occur on a daily basis, hindering progress for millions of people around the world. Racism and intolerance can take various forms, from denying individuals the basic principles of equality to fuelling ethnic hatred that may lead to genocide. The struggle against racism is a matter of priority for the international community and is at the heart of the work of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

But why do we celebrate this day? Almost 69 people were killed by the police in the fire to oppose the apartheid passed laws in 1960 at a peaceful demonstration in the Sharpeville, South Africa. To promote this action as a great demise and remove all types of racial discrimination, United Nations General Assembly declared 21st March as an International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in 1966.

21st of March is from then celebrated each year as the Human Rights Day in South Africa which has been officially declared as the public holiday. This event is being commemorated by the people worldwide on annual basis to remember all those people who had lost their lives in opposing the Apartheid regime or fighting for the democracy as well as demanding the equal human rights in the South Africa.

Since then the racial discrimination has taken a serious note across all the countries. 21st March marks the reminder to eliminate all the racial discriminations. Postal Departments have also played a major role to promote and seek the awareness. The featured stamp was issued by UN in 1971 having the face value of 13 cents.

The humans are made up of various skin tones. We should learn to celebrate and respect each and every skin! Stop judging and stop racism.

Picture Courtesy: Colnect