The International Day for People of African Descent Observed on 31st August to marks a significant milestone in the global recognition of the contributions and challenges faced by individuals of African descent worldwide. As we commemorate this day, we also approach the conclusion of the International Decade for People of African Descent, an initiative launched by the United Nations General Assembly to safeguard the human rights of people of African descent, particularly in the Americas.
While progress has been made towards recognition, justice, and development for people of African descent, significant challenges persist. Women and girls of African descent face particularly complex issues due to the intersection of racial discrimination and gender inequality. These compounded challenges often have severe, sometimes even deadly, consequences.
To highlight the importance of this day and the ongoing issues faced by Afrodescendants, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has collaborated with May Solimar, an Afro-Brazilian designer, illustrator, and comic artist. This partnership has resulted in the creation of impactful comic stories that showcase the vital work of people of African descent, such as Siannie Palmer, a midwife who has supported expectant mothers in Costa Rica for decades.
The International Decade, spanning from 2015 to 2024, aims to:
The observance of this decade reflects several key values:
The pandemic highlighted the urgent need to address long-standing structural inequalities and systemic racism in health systems.
The tragic event in 2020 catalyzed worldwide protests against racism and racial discrimination, prompting crucial global discussions on racial justice.
On June 19, 2020, the Council adopted a resolution on the “Promotion and protection of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Africans and people of African descent against excessive use of force and other human rights violations by law enforcement officers.”
The Underground Railroad played a pivotal role in establishing African American resistance against slavery and oppression.
Saladin Allah, a descendant of Josiah Henson, works as a visitor experience specialist at the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center. As an educator, author, and human rights advocate, he continues the legacy of his ancestors by sharing these important stories and promoting education and historical truth-telling.
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