Fifty years ago today, in the township of Sharpeville in South Africa, 69 people lost their lives during a demonstration against South Africa’s apartheid “pass laws”.  Six years later, in 1966, the United Nations’ General Assembly proclaimed March 21 as International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Let us honour the memory of those who died in Sharpeville and other racist incidents by redoubling our efforts to eradicate all forms of racism and racial discrimination. Let us translate good intentions into legal standards and the will to uphold them. Above all, let us cherish the rich diversity of humankind and respect the inherent dignity and equality of every human being.
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
Message for the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 2010