Mar 21: International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
March 21st is an annual day to reflect, learn, and take action towards the elimination of racial discrimination. Established in 1966 by the United Nations, International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination was created in response to tragic events that occurred at a peaceful protest against apartheid “pass laws” in Sharpeville, South Africa in 1960 (SDG. 2015). This event spurred a global call to action against racial discrimination and showed the immediate need for global cooperation to address it. Commemorating this day “serves as a vital reminder of our collective responsibility to combat racism, promote tolerance, and strive for a more equitable world” (SDG, 2025).
In a Canadian context this day also serves as an important reminder that “while much progress has been made, Indigenous peoples, and racialized and religious minority communities in Canada continue to face racism and discrimination every day” (Gov of Canada, 2024). We know that racial discrimination is not only seen in the words and actions of people, but also in the structures and systems that govern us. Research has consistently shown that Indigenous and racialized communities in Canada experience higher rates of poverty, inequitable access to healthcare, less education and stable housing opportunities, and are over-representation within the criminal justice system (Gov of Canada, 2024). This day is a call to action – one meant for individuals, organizations, government, and all systems. Eliminating racial discrimination is only possible if each of these building blocks of society do ongoing and intentional work to do so.
What are some ways that social workers can expand their understanding of the impact of racial discrimination for the people and communities we serve? · Listen to this “Eh Sayers” podcast episode that dives into Canada’s experience as a multicultural society · Take time to do some intentional reading about Anti-Indigenous Racism in Canada, highlighted through the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health · Read Canada’s 2024-2028 Anti-Racism Strategy and share your learnings within your workplace, focusing on any changes that could be made with your organizational structures · Make yourself aware of current and ongoing efforts by the Alberta Human Rights Commission to protect Indigenous human rights across the province.
Written by Amy Prystupa - MSW Practicum Student
Resources
Government of Canada. (2024). International day for the elimination of racial discrimination.
SDG. (2025). International day for the elimination of racial discrimination 2025.