International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

On 21 March the UN calls for action against racism, marking the anniversary of the 1960 Sharpeville massacre in South Africa.

  • UK
  • USA
  • International
ListingAdded by us from official sources
Last checked19 October 2026
First heldNot known

About the day

The UN General Assembly established the day in memory of the 69 people killed by police at a peaceful protest against apartheid pass laws. It supports wider international work on equality and non-discrimination.

Dates for the next three years

YearDateWhereStatus
2027Sunday 21 March 2027UK, USA, InternationalSame date every year
2028Tuesday 21 March 2028UK, USA, InternationalSame date every year
2029Wednesday 21 March 2029UK, USA, InternationalSame date every year

Where this information comes from

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