March 21 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and reminds us of the important need to identify, address and stand against racism and hatred in our communities.
This day was established almost 60 years ago, after South African police opened fire and killed 69 unarmed people at a peaceful protest against apartheid. As a former South African, born under apartheid, it’s a day of great significance to me personally. Following the brutal massacre of dozens of protestors there, the United Nations called on the international community to recommit to fighting and eliminating all forms of racial discrimination. It’s a commitment that I take seriously.
This day honours the lives lost in the pursuit of social justice and reminds us to take a moment to reflect upon our current reality and the future. This is an important moment in time. We’re living in a time where polarization in our country has hit unprecedented levels and hate crimes have risen 89% since 2022. We are seeing troubling images on our screens and hearing people in power stoke the fires of discrimination and hatred. Statistics Canada says young Canadians in particular are being targeted in our country with 7 in 10 being exposed to online hate and violence in our country. Our friends and neighbours are hurting, and the values of inclusion and equity are being tossed aside. This is unacceptable.
That’s why days like this are so important. They allow us to reflect and learn from one another’s experiences, reminding us of our common humanity. Everyone has the right to live free of racial discrimination and hatred, but it takes every single one of us to actively stand united against racism in all its forms. This is fundamental if we want to continue to build a community with dignity and respect for everyone where we all thrive, regardless of our background.
So today, I urge you to learn more about anti-racism through the many resources available at the Office of Diversity and Human Rights as well as the Government of Canada’s website. Because it takes all of us to create a world we can be proud of now and in the years to come.
Indira Naidoo-Harris
Associate Vice-President, Diversity and Human Rights