Zero Discrimination Day is headed by United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) and is observed annually on 1st March. The day is aimed at ending all forms of inequality and discrimination.
This can only be achieved by the cooperation and contribution of people, to create a movement advocating for change and peace.
This year’s theme is “Save lives: Decriminalize”. UNAIDS is highlighting how the decriminalization of key populations and people living with HIV saves lives and helps advance the end of the AIDS pandemic.
The day is a call to action for eradicating discrimination in all forms and promoting social inclusion and tolerance.
People don’t enjoy equal levels of privilege, but to deprive someone of their right to live the way they desire is intolerable. Everyone has the right to live with dignity, regardless of appearance, race, geography, belief, affiliation, and identity.
Zero Discrimination Day highlights how people can become informed about and promote inclusion, compassion, peace and, above all, a movement for change. Zero Discrimination Day is helping to create a global movement of solidarity to end all forms of discrimination.
Groups of people who are often on the receiving end of discrimination, should find healthy ways to deal with discrimination for your physical health and your mental well-being.
According to APA, such ways include; focusing more on your strengths; getting a support system; staying around family and friends who encourage you; and seeking professional help.
To observe Zero Discrimination Day, celebrate the diverse people in your life whose differences make them unique and teach others to do the same.
BY NKATHA WAINAINA