The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on 21 March. On that day, in 1960, police opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa, against the apartheid “pass laws”. Proclaiming the Day in 1966, the General Assembly called on the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination (resolution 2142 (XXI)).

Since then, the apartheid system in South Africa has been dismantled. Racist laws and practices have been abolished in many countries, and we have built an international framework for fighting racism, guided by the International Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The Convention is now nearing universal ratification, yet still, in all regions, too many individuals, communities and societies suffer from the injustice and stigma that racism brings.

The first article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights affirms that “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”. The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination reminds us of our collective responsibility for promoting and protecting this ideal.

The East Lothian Diversity Network brings together individuals, community organisations and groups that are interested in equality and diversity issues. Everyone is welcome to join and take part in our events!

Key focuses of the Diversity Network

  • Celebration: celebrating East Lothian’s rich diversity
  • Policy: helping to shape our services and practices
  • Information: gathering information about the needs and ambitions of minority groups
  • Campaigns: improving the understanding of equality and diversity amongst the residents of East Lothian

Become a member

You can become a member of the Network. Here are some of the benefits of signing up:

  • you get to take part in a variety of events to celebrate East Lothian’s diversity
  • you will learn more about equality and diversity
  • you can raise issues that are of concern to you
  • you can help to shape public services by sharing your experiences with policymakers

Best of all, it’s free to join! 

Email equalities@eastlothian.gov.uk to register.