By: Lorena Diaz
Every year on September 21, the International Day of Peace is celebrated around the world. The General Assembly has declared this date as the day dedicated to strengthening the ideals of peace, through the observation of 24 hours of non-violence and ceasefire. However, achieving true peace entails much more than laying down arms. It requires the construction of societies in which all its members feel that they can develop. It implies the creation of a world in which all people are treated equally, regardless of their race.
As the Secretary General, António Guterres, states: “Racism continues to poison institutions, social structures and everyday life in all societies. It remains a key driver of persistent inequality. It destabilizes societies, undermines democracies, erodes the legitimacy of governments, and… it is a scourge that is also unequivocally linked to gender inequality.” As conflicts continue to erupt around the world forcing many people to flee, we have also seen incidents of discrimination and racism at borders. At the same time that COVID-19 continues to attack our communities, there has been an increase in hate speech and violence against racial minorities. We all have a role to play in promoting peace. And the fight against racism is crucial to achieve it.
Let us work together to dismantle the structures that entrench racism in our environments. Celebrate peace. Let’s support the movements that fight for equality and human rights and denounce hate speech, both online and offline. Let us rebuild trust and social cohesion through education and restorative justice. The United Nations General Assembly established the International Day of Peace in 1981. Two decades later, in 2001, the General Assembly unanimously decided to designate this Day as a day of non-violence and ceasefire.
