Community activists to march against racism
Annual event focuses on historic injustice, current struggles for equality
VANCOUVER—In recognition of today’s International Day for the Elimination of Racism, CUPE members will once again hit the streets this weekend to march against all forms of racial injustice and discrimination.
The Lower Mainland’s annual community march against racism, to be held on Saturday (March 23) at 2 pm at Clark Park (Commercial Drive and 14th), will include family-friendly activities. Activists are encouraged to bring neighbours, banners and drums to make a loud, visible statement against racism.
The International Day for the Elimination of Racism marks the anniversary of the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa when police opened fire on hundreds of South Africans protesting against Apartheid’s passbook laws, killing 67 and wounding 186. Every year, people around the world mark this day to speak the truth about racism.
“We stand in solidarity with the courageous leadership demonstrated by Indigenous communities across Turtle Island, most recently evident in the Idle No More movement,” says CUPE BC Diversity vice president (Workers of Colour) Dal Benning. “We also recognize that Idle No More is one mobilization amongst centuries of ongoing Indigenous resistance against colonialism.”
Benning says that CUPE members and other trade unionists must always stand together, renew our anti-racist resistance, and show that the labour movement will not be complicit in racism.
“We encourage our friends and allies to be pro-active in countering racism. Join us in solidarity and resistance on March 23rd to celebrate the dignity, strength, and resilience of our communities,” he says.
WATCH VIDEOS FROM LAST YEAR’S EVENT:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQii7Z9-yAw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_UM4nj_iyU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYa9cKAvgR4
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