The globally recognized International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is marked every year on 21st March. This United Nations’ day, also known as End Racism Day, serves as a stark reminder of the Sharpeville massacre in 1960 when police officers fired shots, killing 69 peaceful demonstrators protesting against apartheid ‘pass laws’ in South Africa. The 2023 theme amplifies the urgency of battling racism and racial discrimination and seeks to honor those dedicated individuals and organizations tirelessly working against this social vice.
The Legacy of Sharpeville
In the backdrop of apartheid South Africa, the Pass Laws were control systems designed to regulate the movement of Black, Indian, and Colored citizens, restricting their access to specific areas only. Transgression of these boundaries often led to arrests, creating an oppressive environment. The Sharpeville demonstration in 1960 was a stand against such authoritative rules leading to the tragic loss of 69 lives, leading to the marking of this global day against racial discrimination.
Significance of the Day in 2023
The emphasis in 2023 is placed firmly upon the necessity to combat racism and racial discrimination. This occasion serves as an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of those individuals and organizations steadfastly standing against racial discrimination and overcoming the challenges they encounter.
Shaheed Diwas – A Salute to Indian Revolutionary Heroes
India pays homage to its freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, and Shivaram Rajguru on 23rd March each year since 1931 through Shaheed Diwas. These young men were sentenced to death by the British government for avenging the demise of Indian leader Lala Lajpat Rai by allegedly murdering deputy police superintendent JP Saunders in 1928. Shaheed Diwas is a remembrance of their sacrifice in the struggle for India’s independence.
World Meteorological Day – Celebrating the WMO
Every year on 23rd March, countries around the globe commemorate the establishment of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), set up in 1950. Marking its 150th anniversary in 2023, the day’s theme, ‘The future of weather, climate, and water across generations,’ reflects prevalent weather, climate, and water-related challenges. The day underlines the critical role that National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) have in safeguarding society while also encouraging people to do their part in preserving Earth’s atmosphere.
Sharda Peeth – A Historical Landmark
Home Minister recently e-inaugurated Mata Sharda Devi Temple in honor of Goddess Sharda Devi, revealing an initiative by the Indian government to establish a Kartarpur-style corridor to Sharda Peeth. Considered a significant stride towards discovering Sharda-civilization and promoting Sharda-script, Sharda Peeth resides in the Neelum Valley within Pakistan-occupied Kashmir adjacent to Teetwal village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district along the Line of Control. An ancient center of learning and one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas, it is the revered abode of Hindu Goddess Saraswati and holds immense importance for Kashmiri Pandits, despite its current abandoned state.