On August 31st, the world celebrated the International Day of Afro-Descendant People, with the theme "Expanding the human rights of Afro-descendants". This date, promoted by the United Nations, aims to reinforce the recognition, justice, and development of Afro-descendant communities worldwide.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted in his message the organization's commitment to dismantling systemic racism and removing the barriers that limit the full exercise of rights of these populations. The celebration is part of the Second International Decade of Afro-Descendants, an initiative that seeks to combat persistent inequalities and the lasting impacts of slavery and colonialism.
During the commemoration, emphasis was placed on the defense of the economic, social, cultural, civil, and political rights of Afro-descendants, promoting equal access to education, employment, health, and housing. However, Guterres warned about the reversal of rights in some regions, where these populations continue to face exacerbated racial discrimination, underscoring the need to correct past errors and recognize the historical realities that perpetuate marginalization.
The Second Decade, proclaimed by the UN General Assembly for 2024, aims to create a framework for cooperation between the UN, member states, and civil society, promoting debate and implementation of policies that combat racial discrimination and intolerance. The International Day's program seeks to strengthen commitments toward the recognition and expansion of the human rights of Afro-descendant people globally.
