 |
| Artcard by Jamila Estanislao |
Society frequently exhibits a fixation on differences, akin to a perpetual game of choosing the odd one out—a game with no apparent end, where there always seems to be a predetermined winner and loser. This leads one to question who the real anomaly is. It was never about those who belong to non-dominant races, ethnicities, cultures, or even colors. It’s those who reject finding beauty and harmony amidst diversity.
Today, as we commemorate the International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination, we honor the memory of the 69 individuals who lost their lives when police opened fire during a peaceful protest against the apartheid “pass laws” in Sharpeville, South Africa, in 1960. Years have passed, yet xenophobia and intolerance remain prevalent, with numerous racial incidents still making headlines in the news. At its core, racism is a reflection of the deep-seated divisions that plague the world—a reminder of the ways in which people fail to embrace solidarity.
At present, it is only right that we see this tragedy as motivation to redirect our efforts towards fighting racism, the underlying cause of societal division and the true foe of humanity. Today marks a great opportunity for people to once again take a big step forward. To begin tearing walls down and building bridges. To celebrate the differences that make up the world the way it is. To recognize that elimination should never have centered on the distinctiveness of one’s race and how it fails to conform to societal norms and expectations, but rather on those who persist in discrimination and uphold a sense of superiority over others.
Together, on this day, we finally bring the absurd game of choosing the odd one out to a close and stand united to foster a world of inclusivity.
