European Action Week Against Racism
14 March 2009 - 22 March 2009, 00:01 - 23:59
Congress urges all to mark the European Action Week Against Racism March 14th-22nd. The week serves to underline the continuing realities of racism and its effects, while celebrating the diversity that is and has been part of Ireland.
We are conscious too that evidence from elsewhere indicated that the global downturn we are experiencing can easily bring with it tendencies to scapegoat, blame and discriminate against migrants and minorities.
Now more than ever it is crucial that all of us redouble our efforts to address racism in all its forms and promote an intercultural Ireland where all can live with equality, dignity and respect. International Day (on March 21st) and Week against Racism provides a unique opportunity to do just that.
Trade Unions the world over are marking the day as a reminder of the importance of fighting racism and promoting equality in our workplaces and trade unions. See ITUC Statement and the Trade Union statement to The United Nations conference on the review of the action plan and the final statement on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance adopted in Durban (South Africa - 2001), to be held from 20 to 24 April 2009.