Observed each year on March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination reminds us that racial discrimination and injustice continue to affect people around the world.

The day commemorates a tragic event in 1960 in Sharpeville, South Africa, when police opened fire and killed 69 people during a peaceful protest against apartheid’s “pass laws.”

Since then, governments, international organizations, and communities have worked together through stronger laws, education, and open dialogue to address racism and move toward a world free from racial discrimination and intolerance.

What is Racial Discrimination?

The International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 21, 1965. It defines racial discrimination as:

“Any distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin which has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the recognition, enjoyment or exercise, on an equal footing, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural or any other field of public life.”

Racial discrimination can appear in many parts of daily life, including in the workplace, education, and through systemic barriers.

Although significant progress has been made in addressing racism, much work remains. Racism continues to affect communities around the world, which is why ongoing awareness and action are so important.

This day reminds us of our shared responsibility to support equality and human rights.

For members of the RRC Polytech community, and as part of the broader Manitoba and Canadian communities, this day is also a call to action. Each of us can play a role in challenging racism and discrimination. By strengthening our commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA), we help ensure that everyone feels respected, safe, and able to succeed.

How Can We Stand Up Against Racism?

On this day, we encourage members of the Polytechnic community to take action against racism in all its forms. Here are some ways you can contribute:

• Educate yourself and others about racism
  • 6 things you need to know about ICERD (and CERD)
  • The Sharpeville Massacre | CMHR– Learn about The Sharpeville Massacre, apartheid, and the pass system.
  • Podcast: Eh Sayers Season 2, Episode 1 – Created Equal (explores how cognitive biases can perpetuate systemic racism)
  • Guidance: how can we fight racism? | OHCHR
  • Fight racism | United Nations resources, including What do you know? and What do you see?
  • CCDI Webinar: Systemic racism in the workplace: What is it and what is being done – A leaders panel
  • Anti-racism toolkit – Canada.ca, including:
    • Guide to courageous conversations on racism and racial discrimination
    • Anti-racism terminology glossary
    • Tips on how to be an ally
    • Tips on how to have courageous conversations
• Explore RRC Polytech’s Anti-Racism Initiatives
  • Anti-Racism at RRC Polytech
  • Anti-Racism: A Journey to Allyship (Employee Training)
    • This mandatory training supports employees in building knowledge and skills to advance anti-racism in the workplace.
    • How to access the training:
      HUB → HR Unlimited → My Portal → My Learning → Learning Library → More → Select the course → Click Enroll
  • Anti-Racism Action Committee – Consider joining the committee
  • Anti-Racism Learning Toolkit – Library and Academic Services

Moving Forward Together

We all have a role to play in eliminating racism and discrimination. By working together, we can build safer and more inclusive workplaces and learning spaces.

Thank you for your commitment to this important work.