Zero Discrimination Day is observed on March 1 annually. Primarily celebrated by the United Nations along with other international organizations, it aims to end all forms of inequality and discrimination. This can only be achieved by the cooperation and contribution of individuals, to create an unstoppable movement advocating for change and peace.
History of Zero Discrimination Day
Zero Discrimination Day is a global movement that takes place on March 1 every year. Headed by UNAIDS, the day is a call to action for eradicating discrimination in all forms and promoting social inclusion and tolerance. Not everyone enjoys the same level of privilege, but to deprive someone of their right to live the way they desire is a travesty. Every individual has the right to live with dignity, regardless of appearance, race, geography, or belief.
Surprisingly, discrimination is commonly rooted in fear or misinformation and resistance to the unknown. Creating awareness and dialogue on discrimination is a way to develop understanding and patience towards others. Discrimination is essentially a human rights violation and must be challenged. The good news is that everyone can make a difference. It may not seem that way but one act can create a domino effect that transforms societies based on fairness and equality.
Zero Discrimination Day was created in December 2013 by the then UNAIDS Director Michel Sidibé. Inspired by World AIDS Day, a holiday combating intolerance towards those living with HIV/AIDS, Zero Discrimination Day was observed to end the stigma and unfair behavior towards different people. The United Nations has promoted this cause by arranging various events and designing campaigns that celebrate human life and the freedom to live it with honor and dignity, irrespective of gender, race, religion, color, nationality, disabilities, and profession
Zero Discrimination Day timeline
UNAIDS director Michel Sidibé launches Zero Discrimination Day on World Aids Day.
The United Nations observes Zero Discrimination Day for the first time on March 1.
Armenian Americans hold a protest in California on Zero Discrimination Day to remember the victims of the Armenian genocide.
UNAIDS calls for everyone to "make some noise around zero discrimination, to speak up and prevent discrimination from standing in the way of achieving ambitions, goals and dreams."
Zero Discrimination Day FAQs
What is the theme for Zero Discrimination Day 2022?
The theme for the observance of Zero Discrimination Day 2021 was ‘End Inequalities.’ The theme for 2022 has not yet been determifned.
What is the meaning of Zero Discrimination Day?
Zero Discrimination Day is celebrated annually by the United Nations and similar institutions to promote equality and formulate better policies for implementation and practice throughout all member countries.
Who is the founder of UNAIDS?
Peter Piot is the founder of UNAIDS. The program was founded on July 26, 1994.
How to Observe Zero Discrimination Day
Celebrate diversity
Celebrate all the wonderful people in your life, whose differences are the things that make them so beautiful and unique. Research the impact that inequality has on others.
Talk about it
Organize a seminar or host a discussion on discrimination. Uncover what can be done to end it with people from your community.
Participate in campaigns
You can also participate in events that are taking place in your district. Sign up as a volunteer or go as an attendant.
5 Thought-Provoking Facts About Discrimination
Hurdles created by color
A recent survey conducted at the Pew Research Center showed that black Americans think that their color likely prevents them from getting ahead.
Discrimination is manmade
Scientists label race as a manmade social construct rather than a biological issue.
The numbers are telling
Less than 13% of white students attend a school where students of color are the majority.
The numbers get worse
While their number is significantly low, students of color make up a third of all students expelled or suspended from school.
An unfair privilege
Official police statistics show that police are less likely to stop and investigate white Americans.
Why Zero Discrimination Day is Important
You can make a difference
One small act can make a difference. Whether at an individual, local or national level, it is important to speak up in situations where there is racial injustice or any other equity problems.
The struggle for freedom
Discrimination continues to be an impediment today. Real progress cannot be made until discrimination is eradicated at the grass-root level.
Awareness is essential
We have a long way to go. Until then, awareness is crucial for those who are victims of discrimination.
Zero Discrimination Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | March 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | March 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | March 1 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | March 1 | Thursday |
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