Every year on 21 March, the world commemorates the ‘International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination’, a symbolic date established by the United Nations (UN) in 1966.
This day aims to highlight the need to combat racism, intolerance and all forms of discrimination based on origin, skin colour, culture or religion.
Historical background
“For we were all baptised by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.” ’ (1 Corinthians 12:13). Where, then, does this discrimination come from, which we commemorate every year on 21 March? The choice of 21 March dates back to a tragic event: the ‘Sharpeville’ massacre in South Africa, which took place in 1960. The day on which the police opened fire on a peaceful demonstration against the regime’s segregationist laws. Sixty-nine people lost their lives and hundreds more were seriously injured. This tragedy has become a global symbol of the struggle against racism in all its forms.
Meaning and significance of the day
Beyond commemoration, this day is a call to action. A day that invites our governments, our institutions, our schools and all citizens of the world to reflect on persistent injustices and to strengthen policies of tolerance, inclusion and equality among peoples.
Racial discrimination is not limited to obvious acts of hatred; it can also manifest itself in inequalities of access to education, employment, housing, healthcare or justice. Recognising all these forms of discrimination is vital to building truly equitable societies. The word of God is our compass on this journey: “Learn to do good; seek justice; correct the oppressor; defend the orphan; plead the widow’s case.” (Isaiah 1:17)
A daily commitment
We are in the midst of a time of deep reflection; may this season of Lent help us to combat the racial discrimination we encounter in our communities, our parishes, our schools and our neighbourhoods. We must continue on this path of conversion every day. Let us learn to educate ourselves, to listen to one another, to denounce injustices and to foster intercultural dialogue – all concrete steps towards building a world founded on respect and equality for all. God calls us during this Lenten season to convert our hearts, to reject all forms of racism and to recognise in every person a brother or sister created in his image, for the word of God tells us: ‘There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. ” (Galatians 3:28)
Conclusion
On this International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, we Christians are called to renew our commitment to a world without racism, where everyone is treated with dignity, respect and equal opportunities. This involves: listening to the suffering of the victims of racism, denouncing discriminatory words and practices, educating ourselves in respect and universal brotherhood, and supporting all initiatives that promote justice and peace among peoples. We make the psalmist’s words our own: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. ” (Psalm 51:12)
Sr Chika Reine (SdC)
Province of Central Africa
