On March 21, 1960, police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and shot dead 69 people peacefully and courageously demonstrating against pass laws imposed by the government’s racist legal system known as apartheid. This massacre stands as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of racial discrimination. 

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination honors the lives lost that day and calls on individuals, communities, organizations and governments to fight all forms of racial discrimination. 

Understanding racial discrimination 

Racial discrimination happens when someone is treated differently or unfairly because of factors like ethnic origin, the colour of their skin, or their language. Racial discrimination takes many forms, including racial profiling, jokes or favouritism. 

Systemic racism is woven into the structures and institutions of our society and is less visible. But its impacts on Indigenous, Black and racialized people are all too real. These include precarious employment, inadequate housing and health care, violence, overrepresentation in the criminal justice system, and violations of migrant workers’ fundamental rights.  

CUPE’s commitment to fighting racism 

Racism persists in our communities, workplaces, and our union. CUPE is committed to fight all forms of racial discrimination. Our union stepped up our work on this commitment with CUPE’s Anti-Racism Strategy. The strategy’s 10 goals provide a comprehensive six-year road map for challenging and dismantling systemic racism. 

To mark March 21, CUPE recognizes the contributions of Indigenous, Black and racialized members who have strengthened our movement with new ideas and perspectives and have helped break down barriers by promoting inclusion and equity.  

Act 

Fighting racism requires all of us to step up. Here’s how you can make a difference: 

  • Speak up. If you are facing or witnessing racism, discrimination or harassment, contact your steward to file a grievance or a complaint. 

  • Engage. Help put CUPE’s Anti-Racism Strategy into action in your local. Be inspired by its 10 goals to make changes in your workplace.   

  • Educate yourself. Take part in Union Education workshops to learn more about anti-racism and how you can intervene when you witness discrimination.  

March 21 is not just a day of remembrance-it’s a call to action. Together, we can build a union and a society where racial justice is not just an ideal, but a reality for ourselves and future generations. 

Resources  

  • Order free copies of CUPE’s poster, buttons and stickers for the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.