The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on 21 March. On that day, in 1960, police opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa, against the apartheid pass laws. 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.
Recent events in the United States, Quebec, and Ontario remind us of how important it is to build a strong movement to stop racism, Islamophobia and discrimination. Learning from each other, building a culture of understanding, reaching out to those who feel marginalized, working to eliminate discrimination in all its forms- these are key steps to embracing our common humanity.
Toronto & York Region Labour Council and Urban Alliance for Race Relations have organized an event on the evening of March 21: Let’s pack Toronto City Council Chamber with residents looking to step up and speak out to Stop Hate. An action plan will be outlined with clear steps that each resident can take to resist the surge of racism, discrimination, and Islamophobia.
Where: Council Chambers, City Hall, 100 Queen St W
When: Tuesday, March 21, 7 pm-9 pm
Panel Speakers:
Katherine Brooks, Indigenous Elder, Imam Ibrahim Hindy, Dar al Tawheed mosque, Anthony Morgan, Lawyer and advocate, Kristyn Wong-Tam, Toronto City Councillor, Yussuff, President, Canadian Labour Congress
Moderator:
Nigel Barriffe, President, Urban Alliance on Race Relations
Performances: Moyo Rainos Mutamba (Zimbabwean Mbira performer), ECHO Women’s Choir with Annabelle Chvostek, Toronto Children’s Concert Choir & Performing Arts Company
To register and find out more details, click here.