Anti-Racism day 2021
The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on March 21st. On that day in 1960, police opened fire on people protesting against the system of apartheid in Sharpsville, South Africa, and as such the UN decided in 1966 that this was an appropriate day to show opposition to and solidarity against racism in all its forms around the world.
At Svitac (Firefly Bosnia) we hosted an event with teenagers and young adults. We encouraged them to share their views on two topics: local problems with racism and personal experiences of discrimination.
Participants had a lively discussion which touched on discrimination and poor treatment of migrants, as well as issues facing Roma people in our community – we listened to a song made by young Roma women in Serbia and this helped people to empathise with them. We also talked about discrimination against women, disabled people, and students with disabilities, and discrimination based on nationality.
We continued this discussion in smaller groups and made posters expressing our thoughts on these issues. The event had a lively and active atmosphere, and it was a great opportunity for young people to make their voice heard and explore different types of discrimination, but especially show opposition to racism!
We are proud that young people took the time to get involved and explore such an important issue, in ways that are relevant to their experiences.
