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March 21 has been observed around the world every year since 1966 as International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
Ottawa (16 March 2010) - The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is pleased again this year to join in observances around the globe marking March 21, International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
This occasion is recognized by the United Nations and has been observed annually since 1966 as a day to combat racism worldwide. It commemorates the 1960 massacre of 69 people who were killed while demonstrating against apartheid "pass laws" in South Africa.
Each year NUPGE urges its 340,000 members across the country – and the general public – to make use of educational tools offered by the union to raise awareness about the harmful effects of racism in workplaces and communities as well as the labour movement and society as a whole. This poster is available to all. Please click on this image or the link below to download it.
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The poster proclaims that the concept of full human rights must include the following:
- The right to organize and bargain collectively.
- A national network of community-based services that allow us to fully participate in society.
- An end to poverty and homelessness.
- Elimination of discrimination in respect of employment.
NUPGE president James Clancy says rights are critical but they are meaningless without the means to implement them.
"Each year we strive to make progress but we also recognize that the work of overcoming racism is never finished and we pledge to continue the struggle against it. I urge everyone to honour the spirit of this important day here in Canada and around the world."
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE
More information:
Download NUPGE poster: Elimination of Racial Discrimination Day - March 21