Zero Discrimination Day is celebrated every year on March 1. The reason for celebrating this day is to raise awareness and address the need to end all kinds of inequality. Inequality could be in any form or arise from factors like income, health, gender, occupation, disability, drug use, sexual orientation, and more. While many countries do have anti-discrimination laws in place, the problem still continues to exist in different layers of society. Hence, it is important for governments to not only morally but also legally work towards eliminating laws that are discriminatory towards some people or some sections of society. Implementing protective measures is key. To eradicate discrimination and discriminatory laws, organisations like the United Nations (UN) actively support Zero Discrimination Day. Many activities celebrating everyone's right to live a dignified life, regardless of age, gender, sexuality, nationality, ethnicity, and other such factors, are organised. Zero Discrimination Day is symbolised by a butterfly, which stands for change and transformation for the better. On this day, people from all around the world are encouraged to share their stories and photos, contributing to efforts to end discrimination and bring about positive change. March 2024 Festivals, Events and Holidays Calendar: Complete List of Important Dates in This Month.

Zero Discrimination Day 2024 Date

Every year, Zero Discrimination Day is observed on March 1.

Zero Discrimination Day 2024 Theme

The theme chosen for Zero Discrimination 2024 is Save Lives: Decriminalise. This theme highlights the important link between human rights and public health, with the main focus on eliminating AIDS by the year 2030.

Zero Discrimination Day History

Zero Discrimination Day was first initiated in December 2013. It was launched by UNAIDS Executive Director Michel Sidibé on February 27 of that year in Beijing. Since then, the United Nations has recognised and commemorated Zero Discrimination Day by organising events and campaigns in order to promote respect and freedom for all people, irrespective of their gender, race, religion, nationality, disability, or occupation.

Zero Discrimination Day Significance

Zero Discrimination Day is celebrated to promote equality both in law and practice. It raises awareness against discrimination based on factors like race, ethnicity, age, disability, HIV status, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and social status. It encourages people to act and speak out against these injustices. Discrimination can cause serious health issues, limiting access to healthcare, increasing fear and stress, and promoting unsafe behaviours. Protecting everyone's rights is important for ensuring everyone's health and well-being. By promoting equality and ending discrimination, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to fulfil their potential and live free from injustice.

Discrimination occurs when people are terrified of things that are unfamiliar or unknown to them and difficult to grasp. On Zero Discrimination Day 2024, let us promise to live a life free of discrimination and to treat everyone fairly and with respect.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 29, 2024 05:09 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).