“SHOW RACISM THE RED CARD”, THE WORLD OBSERVES INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ELIMINATION OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION

By VICTOR KANGUYA,

                   

March 21^st, 1960 marked a tragic day in the history of South Africa and the world at large. Police opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa against the apartheid pass laws. In 1966, this day was declared a United Nations (UN) observatory day.  

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 these ideals. This year’s International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination was observed under the theme “Racism and Sport”. The theme was chosen by the UN to highlight the problem of racism in sports; but also crucially to raise awareness of the role sports can play in combating racism.

The fight against racial discrimination is a daunting one and therefore the involvement of youths in this fight is very cardinal. Involving youths and children in this fight will help the young people voice their opinions and find ways to fight racism. In an interview, Chrispine Sinyangwe a Lusaka resident emphasised the importance of involving children in the fight against racism. He said children need to begin to embrace other cultures and races. “Fighting racism requires us as children as future leaders of societies to rise above our indifference and work to achieve greatness as humans,” he said. He further said children need to realize that there is still much to be done to conquer racism.

Sport is crucial in combating racism. There is need to ensure learning institutions such as schools and colleges get involved in anti racism projects. Encouraging socially excluded communities to become actively involved in sports is also important. Show Racism the Red Card Campaign is aimed at stopping racism in society using sport as a tool. There is need to ensure we have inclusive communities in society irrespective of race, gender, nationality, culture or religion. The ruling bodies in sports must ensure there are rigorous penalties in place to squash racism on the playing field.

We all have a role in tackling racism, everyone must remember their obligation and determination in combating racism. Government must lead by example at a national policy level. There is need to show racism and racial discrimination zero tolerance in sports and any other setting in society. The Children’s News Agency with support from European Union.