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Justice
March 21, 2014

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

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination Observed

The Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission recognizes International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. March 21, 2014, is the 54th anniversary of the day in 1960 when 69 peaceful demonstrators opposing apartheid in South Africa were killed and over 180 were injured. 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 Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Act recognizes that every individual is free and equal in dignity and rights. International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination reminds us of our collective responsibility for promoting and protecting this ideal. “Human rights are not idealistic visions of the future or wish lists for the kind of society we would like to have; rather they are standards defining the free, democratic society where everyone, regardless of ethnic, racial, social, national or cultural origin, can thrive in their community” said Remzi Cej, Chair of the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission.

The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador joins with others who will be celebrating this day. The theme for 2014 is The Role of Leaders in Combatting Racism and Racial Discrimination. “As this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination theme emphasizes, our community, business and government leaders play an integral role in promoting an inclusive, welcoming society for all,” said Mr. Cej. “As Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, we must all continue to play our part in ensuring that racism and discrimination have no place in our communities and our province. We must all be leaders in extending inclusion, respect and dignity to everyone.”

This year, Provincial Multiculturalism Week is held during March 17-23. This gives all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians the opportunity to reflect on this 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 Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission will be participating in this year’s “Sharing our Cultures” event which will be held at The Rooms from March 23 to 25. The Newfoundland and Labrador 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 Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission, please visit: www.thinkhumanrights.ca .    

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Media contact:
Carey Majid, LLB
Executive Director
709-729-2709
careymajid@gov.nl.ca 

2014 03 21             10:30 a.m.

 
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