The following is being distributed at the request of the Human Rights Commission:

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

The Human Rights Commission recognizes International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on Wednesday, March 21. This marks the 52nd anniversary of the day in 1960 when more than 70 peaceful demonstrators opposing apartheid were killed and over 180 were injured in South Africa. Proclaiming the day in 1966, the United Nations General Assembly called on the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination.

The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador joins with others who will be celebrating this day. The Human Rights Act recognizes that every individual is free and equal in dignity and rights. The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is a reminder of the collective responsibility for promoting and protecting this ideal.

This year, Provincial Multiculturalism Week is held during March 18-24, 2012. This gives all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians the opportunity to reflect on the province as a welcoming community where the diversity of all its residents is valued. It is also an opportunity to create and foster inclusive communities. The Human Rights Act recognizes the importance of multiculturalism and protects individuals who may be discriminated against on the basis of prohibited grounds such as race, colour, nationality and ethnic origin.

For more information on the Human Rights Commission, please visit www.thinkhumanrights.ca . 

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Media contact:
Karen Hurley Power
Executive Director, Acting
Human Rights Commission
709-729-2709
1-800-563-5808
karenhurley-power@gov.nl.ca 

2012 03 16             11:15 a.m.