Augustinians Mark International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
/March 21 marks the United Nations' International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. We all constitute one human family. We want the world to have full exercise of all its inventive, creative and moral capacities, enhanced by the equal participation of men and women. it is the interchange between great traditions of human spirituality that offers the best prospect for the persistence of the human spirit itself.
Oppose Racism
To oppose racism we must practice the culture of reciprocal acceptance, recognizing in
every man and woman a brother or sister with whom we walk in solidarity and peace.
At the UN World Conference Against Racial Discrimination the Church will raise a strong voice to safeguard the fundamental rights of man, rooted in his dignity of being created in the image and likeness of God.
This Is One of Humanity's Greatest Challenges
The Church’s responsibility to society to overcome racism, intolerance and exclusion. In 2008, Pope Benedict noted “one of humanity’s greatest challenges today is to end racism.”
What Can You Do? First, Pray
First we must all embrace in prayer for God's intercession to end racial discrimination. Please use this prayer here and share with others:
“Dear God, in our efforts to dismantle racism, we understand that we struggle not merely against flesh and blood but against powers and principalities.
Create in us a new mind and heart that will enable us to see brothers and sisters in the faces of those divided by racial categories.
Give us the grace and strength to rid ourselves of racial stereotypes.
Help us to create a Church and nation that embraces the hopes and fears of oppressed People of Color.
Heal your family God, and make us one with you, in union with our brother Jesus, and empowered by your Holy Spirit.
Amen.”
Now, Take the Pledge
"As a citizen of the world community, I stand with the United Nations against racism, discrimination and intolerance of ant kind. Throughout my life I will try to promote equality, justice and dignity among all people in my home. my community and everywhere in the world."
Learn More and Take Action
The United Nations explores more of its 2016 theme, "Challenges and Achievements of the Durban Declaration and Program of Action - 15 Years Later" on its website. There are resources you can use to take action, learn more, and share with others.
